In a remarkable testament to resilience and determination, Billy Monger, a former Formula 4 driver, has completed the Kona Ironman, making headlines not just for finishing the grueling race, but for breaking the record for the fastest double amputee to ever do so. His incredible journey, fueled by the drive to raise money for Comic Relief, has captured the hearts of many across the UK.
The road to the Ironman was anything but typical for Monger, whose life took a dramatic turn in April 2017. At just 17 years of age, he was involved in a horrific crash at Donington Park. As he recounted, "I was doing about 120 miles an hour, coming over the crest of a hill. Two cars were side by side in front of me... and as we came over the hill, there was a stationary car that had spun off on the racing line. I didn’t know I’d lost my legs, but I knew it was bad.” This devastating accident left him a double amputee, forcing him to confront a new reality while redefining what was possible.
Despite the life-altering incident, Monger’s spirit remained uncrushed. He undertook an arduous journey to not only reclaim his life but to push boundaries. With the aim of completing the Ironman World Championships, which consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile marathon run, he transitioned into a full-time training regime. “When I first started training, I’d not done any form of swimming, biking or running properly before,” he said. This was a completely new world to him.
Over the course of a year leading up to the Ironman, Monger trained rigorously, at times dedicating upwards of 20 hours each week to swim, cycle, and run. His preparation was meticulous, ensuring that he could handle the extreme conditions of the Hawaiian course. For the marathon stage, a specially engineered prosthetic was crucial. As he explained, "It’s not like getting a blister on your foot. Your skin breaks down, and suddenly, you’re out of the race.”
The social and psychological dynamics of his training were equally challenging. He shared that during the initial training stages, coaches were trepidatious about pushing him too hard, prioritizing his safety over early performance. However, once he built stamina, he focused intensely on improving his swimming and cycling techniques, learning how to master each skill required for the race.
On race day, Monger faced the quintessential essence of what an Ironman represents. Battling the heat, humidity, and grueling long-distance demands, he not only finished but came away with an astonishing record: completing the course in 14 hours, 23 minutes, and 36 seconds, over two hours faster than the previous double amputee record. Upon completion, he reflected, "When I told people I was doing Kona, they’d just go quiet for a second. But I got it; only one double amputee had ever finished the race in the time limit before." His determination surpassed every obstacle presented by the event.
Furthermore, this fierce undertaking wasn’t just about personal achievement for Monger; it had a larger purpose. Each effort made during the rigorous training and eventual race was directed at raising funds for Comic Relief, a charity close to his heart. Previously, he had successfully amassed over £3 million for the organization, underscoring his commitment to help others while overcoming his personal battles.
The journey was not only physically demanding but also emotionally profound. Monger has often emphasized the importance of cherishing every moment. “You don’t take the days for granted; you grab every opportunity by the scruff of the neck and don’t stop trying,” he advised, channeling his experiences into lessons for resilience and hope.
The challenge and the process of Monger’s extraordinary achievement are also chronicled in a BBC documentary titled "Billy Monger: The Race Is On for Comic Relief,” which aired on March 19, 2025. The film showcases his journey from never having run a marathon to taking on one of the most celebrated endurance feats in the sport, allowing viewers to witness the unwavering resolve of a unique athlete.
In the aftermath of this latest accomplishment, Billy’s ambitions do not seem to fade. He continues to set his sights high, pondering what lies ahead. "Who knows what’s up next for me?” he mused, hinting at the possibility of further racing endeavors, including a return to motorsport. The challenge of Ironman has certainly redefined his trajectory, not just as an athlete but as an inspirational figure to many.
As Monger reflects on his outstanding accomplishments and what could come next, there remains a collective admiration for his spirit. His story reminds us all of the power of resilience and the impact of pursuing one's dreams, no matter the obstacles faced along the way.
