Barnstaple man who conquered past addictions prepares for major triathlon

A Barnstaple man who once battled addiction to 'legal highs' is now gearing up for a significant athletic challenge. 

Connor Shannon, 29, has overcome his past and is set to participate in the Croyde Ocean Triathlon, using the event to raise funds for his organisation, Addicts to Athletes, as well as Plastic Free North Devon.

The event will take place on Sunday, July 14.

Connor's journey from addiction to triathlon training is nothing short of remarkable. 

As a teenager, he became hooked on 'legal highs' in the form of synthetic cannabinoids, failed his exams and later ended up in hospital as well as in a psychiatric institution as his weight plummeted to seven-and-a-half stone.

However, through sheer determination and support, Connor managed to turn his life around.

Now, he is channelling his energy into training for the Croyde Ocean Triathlon, an Olympic Distance event comprising swimming, cycling, and running. 

This triathlon is particularly special for Connor, as it will be the first time he completes a full triathlon, with the swim segment expected to proceed after being cancelled last year.

“I’ve done the Croyde Triathlon before, but this will be my first proper Olympic Distance Triathlon,” Connor said. 

“Last year, the swim was cancelled, so I couldn’t complete the full event. This year, I’m ready for the challenge.”

Connor’s participation aims to raise awareness and funds for Addicts to Athletes, an organisation he founded to help others overcome substance abuse through physical activity and peer support.

Connor said: “Addicts to Athletes is a local charitable association that aims to help those that suffer or have once suffered with addiction and/or mental health issues into the world of athletics and adventure. Running and Triathlon saved my life when I was at rock-bottom, and without the sport I feel I would've ended up in a bad situation or even worse. After overcoming my own addictions, I created the group to help others do the same.”

Half of the funds raised will also support Plastic Free North Devon, an organisation dedicated to reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability.

He said: “Plastic Free North Devon runs the triathlon and emphasises a plastic-free ethos.”

“Their medals are repurposed from old tents found on beaches, and participants are encouraged to bring their own bottles. It’s a great cause that aligns with our values.”

In preparation for the triathlon, Connor has been training intensively.

He said: “I’ve been running, cycling, and doing open water swims to get ready.”

“I recently did a 10-kilometre run and a 40-kilometre cycle, and I’ve been swimming at Dartmoor and Saunton Beach.”

While Connor will be the sole representative from Addicts to Athletes in this event, he hopes to inspire more clients to join future triathlons.

“We have many runners, but we’re working on getting more people involved in triathlons,” he said.

Looking ahead, Connor has more events planned, including another triathlon in Minehead and the Barnstaple Marathon.

“The Barnstaple Marathon is a big goal for me,” Connor said. 

“I’ve only ever run a half marathon before, so this is a huge step. I’m training hard and looking to raise more awareness for our cause.”

Supporters can follow Connor’s journey and contribute to his fundraiser by visiting Addicts to Athletes’ website and participating in their events.

You can support his fundraiser here: https://etchrock.com/pf/croyde-ocean-triathlon-2024/plastic-free-north-devon/Addicts_to_Athletes