A FORMER soldier has completed a 55km ski marathon in Finland, raising more than £400 for charity.
Troy Conner, 40, of Bluebell Close, Hoyland Common, said the marathon was one of the toughest events he has ever competed in. But he finished in just over seven hours.
Troy was injured in 2009 while serving with the Parachute Regiment. The vehicle he was travelling in detonated an improvised explosive device, and his three colleagues were killed.
Troy suffered a traumatic brain injury and broken back, and spent the next year or so in rehabilitation learning to walk and talk and improving his memory and balance.
Since then, he has taken part in 100-mile bike rides, triathlons, and now the 55km ski marathon to raise money for the Armed Forces Para Snowsport Team.
He said: “It was really tough, but it was a success. We thought the marathon was only 50km, but realised we’d signed up for an extra 5km.
“It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Tough going, but it was one experience.
“With the team working around you, and the right mindset you can do anything.”
Troy will take part in a 100-mile bike ride in May to raise money for Blesma, the charity for limbless veterans, and Cancer Research UK.
