On 26 October 2024, Billy Monger broke the IRONMAN World Championship course record for a double leg amputee for Comic Relief, smashing the existing record by over two hours! 

After twelve months of intensive training and relentless preparation, Billy Monger took on the world’s most iconic one-day endurance challenge in Kona, Hawai’i, all to raise money for life-changing Comic Relief-funded projects. 

Facing jellyfish stings during the 2.4mile ocean swim, strong crosswinds throughout the 112-mile cycle, and intense humidity along with torrential rain during the marathon, Billy had to dig deeper than ever to cross the finish line, drawing on those long months of training alongside his desire to raise funds and impact the lives of those facing the toughest times. 

Not only did he cross that finish line, Billy smashed the existing record for a double-leg amputee by over 2 hours, finishing in 14 hours, 23 minutes 56 seconds and inspiring support and donations from all over the world.

Competing in the IRONMAN World Championships would be an immense task for any athlete, but for Billy, also becoming the youngest ever double leg amputee to complete the full course, it is truly an incredible feat.

Billy said: “What a day! That was the longest day of my life - I just felt so much love out on the course; that was a really special day. All that hard work finally paid off and it couldn’t have gone better, everything came together in a really good way. There were a few moments - getting stung by jellyfish and getting a cut on my run socket but all things considered, issues we could have had, I am absolutely chuffed – it was a race I couldn’t have dreamed of and I’m so grateful for every single donation so far which will help to give others the kind of support I’ve been so fortunate to receive in the darkest times. Thank you!”

Billy’s journey to Kona and everything it entailed, will be revealed in a BBC documentary airing in March 2025 for Red Nose Day. Don’t miss it!

This has been an immense undertaking – 12 months of tough training has brought Billy to this point. Supported by a team of specialists, he’s continually pushed through the relentless training sessions in the pool, on the bike and on his running blades to prepare for this ultimate challenge, all driven all by his desire to support those who, like him; have faced adversity but without the strong family and community support he was fortunate to have.

About Billy Monger

Billy Monger is a remarkable young British racing driver whose story has touched millions.

At the age of 17, Billy was involved in a devastating crash during a Formula 4 race at Donnington Park, resulting in the amputation of both his legs. Despite this life-altering event, Billy's determination and love for racing never wavered.

Just months after his accident, Billy was back in a modified racing car, making history as the first amputee to compete in single-seater racing. His journey has been documented in "Driven: The Billy Monger Story," highlighting his incredible resilience and the unwavering support of his family and the racing community.

In 2021, Billy took on a monumental challenge for Comic Relief, raising an astounding £3.2 million by walking, kayaking, and cycling 140 miles across England. This effort significantly supported numerous Comic Relief projects, – showcasing the impact of his dedication, perseverance and refusal to let adversity define him.

Now, he is taking on his toughest challenge yet—the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship in Kona — to raise even more vital funds and to have an even greater impact.