The London event on August 1 will test England’s record try-scorer’s abilities in a 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run. And he is looking forward to the challenge.
“I had no desire to run a marathon but I did fancy doing some kind of challenge and that is how I got involved,” says Underwood, who works in management consultancy and is on the Board of directors at Leicester Tigers.
“I did a practice run in a competition at Cranwell a couple of weeks ago and I learned quite a lot. It was my first attempt and I was really pleased with it.
“Getting used to the transition zones is a big part of it. You come out of the water having been in one flat position and using certain muscles in one particular way, then you have to get on a bike, and you feel a little bit light-headed. Then you have the change when you come off the bike and start the run.”
As a former RAF pilot with 18 years’ service, Underwood says he is keen to support Help For Heroes and is delighted with the support he has received so far.
“Donations total more than £2,000 already and I’m really pleased with that,” he says. “Donations can also benefit from Gift Aid and that is a great thing for the charity.
“If any supporters would like to help then I would be very grateful, it is going to a great cause.
“When you make a donation you can also leave a comment and I’ve had some nice feedback from people.”
To assist Help For Heroes – and encourage Rory – click here.
