A local man is aiming to break a Guinness World Record while fundraising for Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance by completing a half marathon—dressed as the charity’s helicopter.
Gary MacAlister, a regular runner at Melksham’s parkrun, is aiming to claim the record for the fastest male to complete a half marathon dressed as a three-dimensional aircraft.
The time to beat is two hours, eight minutes, and 36 seconds, set by Matt Wood for London Air Ambulance in February 2024.
Gary will attempt the feat at the Bristol Half Marathon on Sunday 11th May, dressed as Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance’s helicopter—an outfit that has been dubbed the ‘Garycopter.’
“I know I can comfortably run a half marathon in less than [the record time], but it’s different in a costume, so hopefully, it won’t slow me down too much,” says Gary, who can complete the Melksham parkrun in 21 minutes.
“The costume is really comfortable; it’s quite light to run in. So, I’m fairly confident I should be able to do it.”
Gary, from Trowbridge, is aiming to raise £2,000 for Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance in the process.
“I’ve been part of Trowbridge Rugby Club for a long time, so I’ve seen the helicopter land there, and I also have a colleague at work who has needed the air ambulance for both of his children over the years,” says Gary.
“Although I’ve not needed Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance personally, I know so many people who have, and it’s a vital part of the community it serves.
“We know everyone needs money at the moment as times are tough, but for Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance, all of their funding comes from donations, so hopefully, my challenge will help raise awareness and vital funds.”
Fundraising manager for Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance, Fraser Normington, said, “We always enjoy hearing about the many wonderful ways in which people look to fundraise and support our lifesaving work, and Gary’s world record attempt in May is right up there with the best. We can’t wait to see the Garycopter winding its way through the streets of Bristol, and we will be keeping our fingers crossed that Gary secures that world record.”
Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance provides vital critical medical care by land and air across the region. This year, the charity celebrates its 35th anniversary.
If you would like to support Gary’s challenge and world record bid, visit his JustGiving page: justgiving.com/page/garycopter.
Two photos of Gary at Melksham Parkrun by Sarah Cardy
