FOR most people it’s the achievement of a lifetime.

But one Hampshire man has now done two triathlons every weekend for the last six months.

Covering the equivalent distance of a journey from Southampton to New York, Keith Diaper has run, swam and cycled more than 3,500 miles for charity in his Ironcause challenge.

The 41-year-old has completed 52 middle distance triathlons since April 1 to raise money and awareness for the Hypermobility Syndromes Association.

Keith’s wife Pippa has been diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which causes her joints to dislocate on a regular basis.

Keith, of Hedge End, has now raised more than £4,200, with donations still piling in.

An electrician by trade, he said: “It’s so amazing to have finished, even though I’m not sure it has really sunk in yet.

“Unlike when I have completed big events in the past, I don’t intend to back off too much, I really want to keep my fitness levels up.”

Over the 52 events, Keith has completed 3,655.6 miles, rising to almost 4,700 including training.

Burning 233,240 calories, he has swum 75.57 miles, cycled 3,828.17 and run 795.47 miles over the last six months. Every event consisted of a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile cycle followed by a 13.1-mile run.

Although EDS cannot be cured, Keith hopes to educate people through his challenge and raise awareness.

Pippa’s condition took three years to determine, with health professionals carrying out various tests.

Keith said: “She is such an inspiration and pushed through her pain.

“She holds down a full-time job as a teacher and is busy with our daughter Isabella.”

Keith also has a celebrity fan.

He said: “I sent Gordon Ramsay a message on social media as he’s a fellow triathlete.

“Soon after I had a message asking me to email him so he could invite myself and my family to dinner.

“To get recognition from someone like Gordon who knows what it takes to do Ironman triathlons is just incredible.”

But Keith isn’t planning on slowing down.

“I will be resting more but I have lots planned including two half marathons, the Great South Run and then next year, three marathons.

“I am looking forward to spending more time with my girls, they are my world and I couldn’t have finished this without them.”

Chef Ramsey posted his congratulations to Keith on Twitter, saying: “Keith well done and what a brilliant achievement. Dinner is on me.”