The third annual Builth Wells Charity Aquathlon brought together first-time participants and seasoned athletes alike, raising an impressive £5,000 for Wales Air Ambulance.
The event, which was open to all ages and abilities, saw competitors travel from as far as Harrogate and Gosport, with participants ranging from age 12 into their 70s.
The aquathlon took place at The Groe, on Sunday 9 August 2026, and offered participants an opportunity to take part in the events for charity.
This year there were three events to choose from – individuals took part in a 200m (8 length) pool swim followed by a 3k run, or a 400m (16 length) pool swim followed by a 5k run.
Two-person teams took part in the relay, which saw one person swim 400m, and their teammate run 5k.
Hugh Tamlyn, Regional Fundraising Manager for Wales Air Ambulance, attended the aquathlon and participated in the event, further highlighting its community spirit.
Helen Tuite, Co-organiser of the popular event, shared her delight. She said: “It was wonderful to see such a diverse group coming together, proving this is truly an event for everyone.”
Local businesses played a pivotal role in the event’s success. Charcroft Electronics in Llanwrtyd Wells, Coyle Surfacing, and other sponsors provided essential support.
“Without the generosity of our sponsors, we couldn’t have raised this incredible amount for such a vital Charity.”, said the organisers.
Vicky Mellor, Director at Charcroft Electronics, added: “We’re proud to support this fantastic community event for such a worthy cause.”
The Wales Air Ambulance service is a consultant-led, taking hospital-standard treatment to patients and, if required, transferring them directly to the most appropriate hospital for their illness or injury. It is delivered through a unique partnership between the third sector and public sector.
The Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) supplies highly skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners who work on board the Charity’s vehicles.
This advanced critical care includes the ability to administer anaesthesia, deliver blood transfusions and conduct minor operations, all at the scene of an incident.
As a pan-Wales service, its dedicated crews, regardless of where they are based, will travel the length and breadth of the country to deliver emergency lifesaving care.
Hugh Tamlyn said: “I was delighted to take part in the annual aquathlon. It is a hugely popular event, thanks to the organisers, and it was wonderful to see people of all ages getting involved. I thoroughly enjoyed the day. A huge thank you to all the organisers, volunteers and participants that made it such a successful event.
“The Wales Air Ambulance relies on public donations to raise £13 million every year to keep our helicopters in the air and our rapid response vehicles on the road. Fundraisers, like this one which raised £5,000, will help us to continue to be there for the people of Wales when they need us most.
“We really appreciate the support from Builth Wells Aquathlon committee. You’ve all played a part in saving lives across Wales.”
The Aquathlon is organised by a dedicated group of local volunteers. Those interested in getting involved or providing corporate sponsorship or match funding for next year’s event can contact builthaquathlon@gmail.com.
Photo Credit: Ted Edwards Photography, Builth Wells
