Man to take on Ironman from his conservatory to raise money for Wales Air Ambulance

A man from Ceredigion is taking on what is considered one of the most challenging one-day sporting events in the world - the Ironman Triathlon - from his conservatory.

Russell Williams, from Penparc, will row 2.4 miles on a rowing machine (instead of the usual swim), cycle 112 miles on an exercise bike and run 26.2 miles on a treadmill.

The 41-year-old will complete the triathlon totalling 140.6 miles for the Welsh Air Ambulance Service, which has seen a "significant decrease in donations" since the coronavirus outbreak.

The indoor challenge follows strict guidelines that people must stay at home unless absolutely necessary, such as food shopping or a short stint of exercise.

Mr Williams was set to compete in an Ironman event later this year but has been cancelled due to coronavirus. Credit: Russell Williams

Mr Williams, who has completed seven Ironman Triathlons, said: "Wales Air Ambulance is such an important service for us in rural Wales.

"I saw an article saying that charities would be struggling for donations because of the coronavirus outbreak, so I wanted to help."

“I’m also missing competing. One of the Ironman events I was planning to do this year is not going ahead because of the virus.

"I’m fit enough and well enough to do an Ironman, so I thought I would do one while fundraising at the same time.”

The fundraiser has already beat its £500 target.

At a cost of £6.5m per year, Wales Air Ambulance runs four aircraft. Credit: PA Images

The Wales Air Ambulance Service is continuing to respond to coronavirus and non-virus-related medical incidents.

The charity has launched an emergency appeal as it anticipates a "significant decrease in donations".