Charity relaunches Walk Wales event following last year’s huge success

Following the huge success of its virtual Walk Wales challenge last year – the Wales Air Ambulance is delighted to give participants a chance to take part again.

Last year, during lockdown, over 500 people laced up their boots to take part in their virtual Walk Wales challenge – raising an incredible £32,000. 

This year’s theme is ‘castles,’ and includes the I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Gwrych Castle.

The challenge allows walkers a chance to set themselves a target based on the number of steps they could achieve over a one-month period from the comfort of their own homes. Each target is the equivalent of a walk between iconic Welsh castles and can be achieved at home, in the garden or during exercise, taking the dog for a walk – and even going up and down the stairs! 

The choices are as follows: 

Dinas Bran Castle to Caergwrle Castle: 16 miles (36,000 steps)

Caernarfon Castle to Gwrych Castle: 35 miles (80,000 steps)

Carreg Cennen Castle to Pembroke Castle: 50 miles (114,000 steps)

Caerphilly Castle to Llansteffan Castle: 75 miles (171,500 steps)

Powis Castle to Kidwelly Castle: 100 miles (229,000) steps

Harlech Castle to Cardiff Castle: 150 miles (343,000 steps)

The challenge will take place during the month of June and entry is £10, however, participants are encouraged to set up their own fundraising page. Walk Wales allows participants to virtually walk the equivalent distance between some of Wales’ beautiful castles.  

90 per cent of participants who took part in the Wales Air Ambulance’s first-ever Walk Wales were fundraising for the Charity for the first time.

The fundraisers, which were aged between two and 94, came out in force to show their support to the lifesaving charity.  

Two-year-old Evie Jamieson, who received lifesaving treatment from the Wales Air Ambulance’s medics in March 2020, took part in the 15 miles challenge and raised £2,711. Her proud mum, Jessica, said: “We needed the support of the air ambulance to save our baby girl’s life, and that’s certainly what they did. Without the helicopter and the four amazing medics that attended to Evie, she wouldn’t be with us today.”

Mark Stevens, Wales Air Ambulance Fundraising Manager, said: “The Virtual Walk Wales challenge during 2020 was a massive success. To raise £32,000 in just a month is incredible but to hear that it was the first time 90 per cent of the people taking part had fundraised for us makes it even more special.  

 “We would like our supporters to once again put on their walking shoes and take part in this year’s challenge, especially during our 20th anniversary. Walk Wales is a perfect fundraiser for all ages and the participant can set themselves a target based on the number of steps they think they could achieve.

“The past year has been tough for everyone but focusing on a new challenge, or learning a new skill, can help to keep us motivated as we move to more positive times ahead.”

All participants will receive a locally made, sustainable medal and e-certificate for their efforts.

The Charity is offering free entry to schools and youth groups to take part in this year’s Walk Wales.

It is important that Government guidance is followed while undertaking this challenge. 

For more information on how to sign up to Walk Wales visit www.walesairambulance.com