Eastwood takes on Iron Man

Dispensing optician James Eastwood will be competing in one of the toughest Ironman triathlons in the world later this month to raise money for Vision Aid Overseas. Eastwood, a veteran of the Optician Ironman team, will swim 1.2 miles in the chilly waters of Wimbleball reservoir, cycle 56 miles around a rolling Exmoor course and run a undulating 13.1 miles for the UK Ironman 70.3.

Eastwood said he wanted to take on the challenge but also to raise money for VAO.

‘A pair of spectacles can change someone’s life and VAO is working to transform access to eye care in developing countries.’ Eastwood is being supported by sunglass maker Maui Jim and his practice, Juul and Payne, but is still looking for support from fellow optical professionals. In 2008 when Eastwood tackled the event with the Optician team he was forced to retire due to injury.