The Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) is appealing to the public to take part in their new virtual fundraising event which will run until the end of 2020.
The ‘Race to the Base’ challenge, will see fundraisers cover the distance GNAAS’ critical care team fly when returning to the air base from the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle, the North’s main major trauma centre.
Participants can choose to take on the 32-mile challenge from the RVI back to GNAAS’ air base at Teesside International Airport, or the 42 miles from the RVI to their Cumbria base in Langwathby, Penrith.
The challenges, which are designed to be accessible to everyone, can be completed by doing any activity and in any time frame, with the event remaining open until the end of this year.
Paula Moore, event fundraising assistant at GNAAS said: “Race to the Base is an inclusive event that can be mended, adapted and planned to cater for individual needs. The event allows everyone to participate as equals but offers flexibility for individual preference.”
For the seasoned athletes in the North, if the two options are too easy, the fundraiser can decide to take on a longer distance with the reality concept of beating the air ambulance helicopter back to the base.
By taking on this challenge, fundraisers will ensure that GNAAS can continue to cover the distance and save lives across the region.
Miss Moore said: “We really hope to get as many people as we can signed up to this. GNAAS can then begin bridging the gap in funds, that have inevitably unfolded, due to COVID 19.”
The event, which is sponsorship based has no joining fee and fundraisers can simply fill out a form on the GNAAS website to take part.
Jamie Walsh, paramedic and training manager at GNAAS said: “During this uncertain time it’s so important to stay healthy and active. The Race to the Base challenge is an opportunity to do both and for a great cause.
“This fundraising event will help to ensure our service carries on and is available to help those in need.”
GNAAS is continuing to fly through the COVID-19 crisis but has asked the public to continue its support in the face of the collapse of its community fundraising activities. Please visit www.gnaas.com or call 01325 487263 to find out more information on how to sign up to the Race to the Base virtual event.
‘Race to the Base’ and help GNAAS to continue their life-saving mission.
