An intensive care consultant at Glangwili Hospital is among the riders preparing for a 100km fundraising cycle across South Wales to support the Wales Air Ambulance Charity. Dr Felicity Clark, who also serves on rapid response crews at the local airbase, will take part in the annual Cycle 100 event on Sunday, September 6, cycling from Cardiff to the charity's regional headquarters in Dafen, Llanelli.
Personal Health Journey Inspires Participation
Dr Clark, known as Fliss, began her health transformation six years ago after failing an initial fitness test required to join the air ambulance team. The setback motivated her to change her lifestyle, lose weight, and build the physical strength needed to carry heavy medical equipment to emergency scenes. She hopes her journey will encourage others to sign up for the long-distance event.
The Wales Air Ambulance Charity relies on public donations to raise the £13 million needed every year to keep its helicopters and response vehicles operational. Its medical crews consist of NHS consultants and critical care practitioners who deliver advanced treatments, including emergency anaesthesia and blood transfusions, at scene locations across Wales.
Funds Directly Support Critical Care Teams
Money raised during the ride will directly support critical care teams who deliver emergency hospital treatment at scene locations across Wales. Dr Clark said: “Wales Air Ambulance carries out over 3,500 missions each year across Wales. We rely on the support of the people of Wales to help us take the hospital to the patient, whenever or wherever they might need us. It’s an incredibly expensive operation, and without fundraising events or generous supporters, our lifesaving service would not exist.”
She added: “As a clinician, who witnesses first-hand the benefits of Wales Air Ambulance, I feel I have a responsibility to get involved with events like Cycle 100. It is my way of giving back to the Charity and saying, thank you to everyone who has donated and volunteered their time over the years, as we celebrate its 25th anniversary.”
Charity Celebrates 25th Anniversary
Gail Windley, Wales Air Ambulance events and partnerships fundraiser, said: “Our crew work tirelessly throughout the year helping patients who are critically ill or injured. They see the difference the service makes, they understand how every pound raised translates into saving lives.” She continued: “Fliss’ fitness journey is inspirational, and we are so grateful that she has chosen to sign up for our Cycle 100 challenge, the second year in a row! Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a first-time racer, we hope to see you on the start line with our crew members.”
The event will take place on Sunday, September 6, starting in Cardiff and ending in Dafen, Llanelli. Registration fees and fundraising details are available online. For more information or to sign up for the ride, visit www.walesairambulance.com.
