FIVE years ago, weighing in at 22 stone, one Chapelford father would break sweat jogging to the end of his drive.

Now, aged 46, Paul Sellars is about to make his triathlon debut on the international stage for Great Britain – along with his teenage son.

Sellars, who only began to run after doctors warned he was developing heart problems, will represent GB in his age category at the ETU Long Distance Triathlon European Championship in September.

He set qualifying times for the event in Weymouth, which includes a 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42.2km run, during the Outlaw Half Ironman and Challenge Weymouth race.

“I was sporty as a youngster but did the classic ‘have lots of beer, have kids’,” explained Sellars. “I was 22 stone at one point and had a bit of grief with my heart.

“It’s the first time I’ll be representing my country – it’s the crowning glory!”

Sellars’ ‘fat to fit’ story has made the whole family proud, not least daughter Rachel.

“Five years ago my dad was very overweight and having heart problems,” explained the 14-year-old.

“The doctors told him that he had to start exercising if he wanted to stop having these problems and it was a very scary point.

“From that moment onwards my dad’s life changed.”

Sellars began mountain biking, running and swimming; eventually deciding to throw all three together and give triathlon a shot.

“Once I started, the pounds were shedding off every week,” added Sellars, who now trains between 15 and 17 hours a week.

“I’m at a stable weight now and have been for about 18 months, it’s about fitness and strength and keeping injury free.”

Sellars’ is a tale of dedication and he counts on his family’s continued support, but the triathlete trains mostly alone to fit in with his own needs, rather then become affiliated to a local club.

“My family are very supportive,” he added. “I train by myself, I’m up at half 5 every morning before I go to work, with a little bit of motivation from Facebook, Strava etc.

“I swim at Orford Jubilee Hub, run along the Trans Pennine Trail and cycle to and from work at Trafford Park, and around Cheshire.

“I look back after a three-hour run now and think five, 10 years ago I couldn’t really get out of the drive without breaking sweat.

“I get OCD if I miss runs now, but I’ll keep going while I enjoy it.”

But Sellars is not the only one in the family set for international action later this year.

His son, Daniel Bluff, will also be representing Great Britain.

The 18-year-old has qualified for the ETU Standard Distance Duathlon World Championships in Adelaide, Australia in October.

The Newcastle University student also has eyes on next year’s Triathlon World Championships, as well qualifying for the European Duathlon 20 to 24 age category.

“I’m chuffed to bits for him that he’s off to Australia,” added Sellars.

“When he started at Newcastle they had a really big triathlon club and he’s doing really well.

“It was Dan who told me I might be able to qualify in my age group. I had no idea and it didn’t even enter my mind.

“It’s nice to be able to get out cycling together sometimes now.”

Rachel added: “I am a very proud daughter and sister. What they have accomplished in these past few years is truly inspirational!”