Virtually raising money for local charities

What a way to celebrate their 10th anniversary. In 2020, North Wales based Always Aim High Events were looking forward to celebrating with a full calendar of triathlon, running and cycling events when the pandemic put a stop to all their plans. They didn’t sit back and eat cake. Here’s what they have been up to.

Director Tim Lloyd says ‘We had thousands of disappointed competitors, who had been training for months. Instead of heading to the start line to reap the rewards of their hard work, they were locked down. We wanted to come up with a way to boost morale, keep people active, and give them something to aim for. As a local company with strong community roots we also wanted to help others, lockdown was tough but together we could be tougher!’

In April the first Always Aim High Virtual Events were launched. Each month has seen more and more people getting involved running and cycling distances from 25km to 500km or enjoying more unique challenges such as climbing the height of Mont Blanc on their own staircase. During strict lockdown participants were exercising on treadmills or indoor trainers in the living room and doing laps of the garden as well as their daily exercise to achieve their goals and earn a locally sourced commemorative slate coaster and other Always Aim High goodies.

Helping charities

Tim added “We wanted to keep people active while supporting local communities at the same time, so decided to launch our virtual events as a completely not for profit initiative. So far the scheme has raised thousands of much needed funds for local charities including NHS Charities Together, local Mountain Rescue teams in Ogwen, Aberglaslyn and Llanberis, the RAF Benevolent Fund, Ty Gobaith, Llanberis Community Council, and Velindre Cancer Care Centre.”

“We can’t wait to get back to real racing, but in the meantime we’re thrilled with how well the Virtual Events have been received, and would sincerely thank all who have taken part for their continued support.”

As well as the regular Virtual Event challenges in August, Always Aim High are taking their famous Cycle Sportive the Tour de Mon virtual using a new mobile app to give participants the impression they’re cycling around Anglesey wherever they might be in the world!

Virtual Event challenges in August

• Run/Walk – 25km, 50km, 75km, 100km, 100 miles
• Run – Half Marathon in 24 hours
• Kids Run – 3km, 5km, 10km
• Cycle – 100km, 150km, 200km, 250km, 500km
• Cycle – Tour de Mon
• Duathlon – Run 25km, Bike 100km
• Staircase30 – Climb the height of Mont Blanc (4808m) in 30 days.

Entries for August Virtual Events are open with the Virtual Tour de Mon happening this weekend. The Snowdonia Trail Marathon will be launched soon so keep an eye out for more details.

To enter or find out more visit their website here.