In 2020, North Wales based Always Aim High Events was looking forward to celebrating its 10th anniversary with a full calendar of triathlon, running and cycling events. When the pandemic put a stop to all its plans the firm changed tack.
Director Tim Lloyd said ‘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 at home. 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 the event organiser has reported 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 staircases.
During strict lockdown participants were exercising on treadmills or indoor trainers 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.
Tim Llyod 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.”
He continued, “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 regular Virtual Event challenges in August, Always Aim High is taking its cycle sportive the Tour de Mon virtual using a new mobile app to give participants the impression they’re cycling around Anglesey even if they’re many, many miles away.
Virtual events on offer:
- 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 – with further details to follow.
