Barnstaple driver Andy McDonald joins London Classics Hall of Fame

 

Smurfit Westrock Atlas delivery driver Andy McDonald has achieved an incredible sporting milestone, earning a place in the London Classics Hall of Fame after completing three of the capital’s toughest endurance events.

The London Classics medal is awarded to those who conquer the London Marathon, the RideLondon 100-mile cycle, and the two-mile Serpentine swim, a feat completed by only around 4,250 people worldwide.

Andy, who is based in Barnstaple and delivers our packaging across the South West, completed his two London Marathons in 2019 and 2021, the RideLondon 100 in 2023, and the Serpentine swim earlier this year.

“The swim was by far the hardest,” said Andy. “I’m not a swimmer, so doing two miles with thousands of others was tough, it was actually harder than the marathon!”

Of the three events, Andy says the cycle was the most enjoyable:

“I finished the 100 miles in about five hours and twelve minutes, averaging around 20 miles an hour. It was a nice day and definitely the most fun.”

Andy’s dedication extends well beyond the finish line. He has recently celebrated 30 years of service with Smurfit Westrock Atlas and continues to train regularly to stay fit and healthy.

 

“I spend long hours driving, so I train most nights when I get home,” he explained. “It’s important to stay active. I don’t want to be a typical lorry driver!”

Having taken up running at the age of 50, Andy hopes his journey inspires others to challenge themselves, no matter when they start.

“I only started running in 2017 after a friend encouraged me to try it,” he said. “I went from one mile to 26 pretty quickly! It just shows it’s never too late.”

Andy now has his sights set on what he says will be his final marathon, the 2026 London Marathon, which he’ll run just two days before his 58th birthday to raise money for the Veterans Charity.

Everyone at Smurfit Westrock Atlas congratulates Andy on this fantastic achievement and on his 30 years of dedication to the company.