Places available to support Wales Air Ambulance for sold-out Cardiff Half Marathon!

A husband and wife originally from north east Wales are urging runners to take on the Cardiff Half Marathon this autumn to help raise funds for the Wales Air Ambulance.

The charity, which delivers advanced critical care across Wales, is delivered via a unique Third Sector and Public Sector partnership between Wales Air Ambulance and the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS Cymru).

It is consultant-led, taking hospital-standard treatments to the patient and, if required, transferring them directly to the most appropriate hospital for their illness or injury.

Team Wales Air Ambulance are on a mission to raise money for its lifesaving service and is offering spaces to Wales’ biggest mass participation event, Cardiff Half Marathon on Sunday 6 October 2024.

Teacher, Mike Hughes, is a big supporter of the charity, and has been since the charity flew to his after a rally crash in 2005.

He and his wife Vicki, who are originally from Mold, chose to run their first Cardiff Half Marathon last October as a way of saying thank you – raising over £1,500 including Gift Aid.

“I made a promise to myself when lying in my hospital bed on Bonfire Night, 2005, not knowing where I was or who my parents were, that I would always support the charity that saved my life,” explained Mike.

“I have been lucky to be able to live a normal life and that is because of the actions of the Wales Air Ambulance. I will always be indebted to them.”

The air ambulance service in Wales relies entirely on charitable donations to raise £11.2 million every year to keep our helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road across Wales.

You too could be on the start line for the Cardiff Half Marathon this year if you pledge to raise a minimum of £200 for the charity.

The 13.1-mile course covers some of the capitals most iconic landmarks including Cardiff Castle, the Principality Stadium and Cardiff Bay.

Mark Stevens, Wales Air Ambulance’s Head of Fundraising said: “We would love your support at this year’s Cardiff Half Marathon.

“It’s always a special event and great to see the Welsh capital full of runners.

“The event has sold out – but we are delighted that we can offer free places to those who pledge to run on behalf of our charity.

“Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, every step you take and penny you raise will save lives.”

Those who sign up to take part for Wales Air Ambulance will receive fundraising support throughout, a charity branded running vest and a bespoke medal from the event organisers.

Register your interest via the charity’s website, www.walesairambulance.com/cardiffhalf or by emailing [email protected].