Planet Earth Logistics’ Chief Executive Paul Boote is competing in this year’s Challenge Roth, a distance ˜Iron Man Triathlon competition, on 18th July in aid of Depression Alliance, the national charity that offers information and support to those who suffer with depression.
Paul has never competed in an Iron Man competition, nor has he ever completed a marathon – which is just one part of the three-stage event that begins with a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike race and culminates in a 26.2 mile run.
Asked about his motivation to enter the race, Paul cites his experience in the sexual wellbeing market and particularly those customers whose sexual desire and performance have been affected by their state of mind. He said: “Depression is arguably the most common cause of sexual dysfunction. It’s evident from conversations with our customers that many people suffer from some kind of depression or anxiety from time-to-time and need someone to talk to as well as a pick me up. The products we supply at Planet Earth can help with one side of that – but I believe that the counseling and information provided by Depression Alliance is essential to help tackle the core of the problem. Whilst many people can easily find our products, without charities like Depression Alliance counseling services would be much harder to come by.”
In preparation for the event, Paul has taken to a strict regime of exercise and regularly rides between 50 and 100 miles, but admits the biggest challenge he faces is keeping his mind focused for fifteen hours – his personal target in which to finish the race.
Once complete, Paul has further aspirations to challenge himself for those battling with depression: “There are a few ideas going around, which may include a climb up Kilimanjaro, but I think I’m most likely to attempt the Chinese Iron Man competition, which is supposed to be the most difficult of all the Iron Men competitions, as it has a drop-out rate of around 50 per cent due to the extreme heat.”
In the next month, Paul aims to raise £1000 for Depression Alliance and hopes that his efforts will encourage further contributions to a cause that affects one in five people in the UK. If you have been touched by depression and wish to sponsor Paul, contact Planet Earth on 01924 333320 or visit http://www.justgiving.com/Paul-Boote to make a donation online.
