A priest from Bradford, England is flying to Abu Dhabi this week to take part in his first ever triathlon to raise funds for the city’s Cathedral. And he will definitely be going through the pain barrier.

The Very Reverend Andy Bowerman will compete in the 15th edition of the TriYAS Triathlon at the Yas Marina circuit on Saturday (February 8).

Bowerman, the Dean of Bradford, had knee replacement surgery in 2018 but he is taking on the challenge of the day-to-night event, which involves a 1.5km swim, 40km cycle and 10km run.

From parkrun to gruelling triathlon

Bowerman told the Bradford Telegraph and Argus: “I’ve not run since I had a knee replacement and my busy schedule as Dean has kept me away from the training track. But I’ve been busy preparing for the triathlon over the last few months, including running a weekly parkrun at Lister Park.

“The TriYAS 2025 triathlon will be a big challenge, but I’m looking forward to it, and I will be greatly spurred on by your support. All the money raised will help support the amazing work of Bradford Cathedral in this exciting City of Culture year – and beyond.”

Dean Andy, who was club Chaplain at Premier League football team Southampton for 11 seasons, spent four years in Dubai working with the Mission to Seafarers before returning to Bradford in 2022.

Raising much-needed cash

Liz Purchase, Head of Fundraising at Bradford Cathedral, says: “Bradford Cathedral is at the heart of the city’s fascinating history and its people; it is a place of inspiration and peace, and an important asset for Bradford, but it costs over £2,850 a day to run.

“As well as conserving our beautiful building, we want to continue our amazing education and music work supporting children and young people from across the city, and welcome visitors from across the world.

“Our ‘Dean Andy Dares!’ campaign is a fantastic opportunity for people to support and help ensure the Cathedral, Bradford’s oldest buildings, has a future.”