I have been a multi-sports athlete for over 20 years, competing in triathlons and
duathlons for 20 seasons. I have written regular magazine articles since the early 1990's.

I love the sport and work I do - I feel that it is a precious gift.

I thank my parents Mick ("Burt") & Hazel and family for their never ending support,
Who would have ever thought that the sickly child would ever be an Ironman?

I thank my friends and training partners for their advice and humor,
Graham, Mick, Phil, Dick, Eric, Rich, Earle, Mark and all the rest of you.

All the editors who have been patient with my writing and deadline scraping,
I may have cut deadlines close but I still get a thrill from penning every new article.

I thank my sponsors, business collaborators and supporters,
Adidas, PowerBar, Polar, Sports Tours, SouthFork and the many others.

Thank you to all the athletes who have put their trust in me,
You have made me proud and made all the hard work worth while.

I want to continually innovate new ideas, demonstrate smart concepts and educate others.
If you follow this I am certain you will be fitter, become faster, go further and be smarter.

Finally I thank my partner Sharon who has made my life complete.
You make me happy and contented, and a better man.


Joe Beer, Braunton, North Devon, UK - February 2003.

P.S. Thanks to Seth, my son for putting everything into perspective

and making his Dad a fully contented and happy man.