From tries to triathlon - Kilkenny rugby star forges new sporting path

A Kilkennyman who has gone from tries to triathlons has embraced his new sporting life.

For Martin Mulhall, the thrill of professional rugby has been replaced by the buzz of triathlon - but his competitive hunger is as keen as ever.

Mulhall, who hails from the Kells Road, thought his sporting life was over after he retired from professional rugby. Having started on the path from an early age with Kilkenny, Lansdowne, Leinster under-20s, Ospreys, Hartpury, Coventry, Bristol, Saracens, Northampton Saints and Warringah Rats, a career which saw him move abroad several times. Scroll down to read more and click the arrows to continue...

However, a series of injuries forced the former prop to look at a career change. Focusing again on his passions he switched over to cooking and nutrition, before moving on work in butchery - but that competitive edge never left him.

The chance to try something different arose midway through 2024, when Mulhall was challenged by a friend to complete an Ironman triathlon - a challenge which involves a 3.8km swim, continues with a 180km bike ride and ends with a 42.2km run.

Mulhall’s new passion required persistence and courage. Both Mulhall and his friend, Christian Futschik, tested their mental and physical limits, but did it with a good cause in mind - together they raised money for Movember, a charity dedicated to men’s health. Click the next arrows to read on and see more pictures...