A popular sporting fundraiser is returning to Builth Wells this summer – with even more options for participants and a new charity at its heart.

The Builth Wells Aquathlon 2025 will take place on Sunday, August 10, and this year’s event is being held in aid of The Bracken Trust, which supports people affected by cancer.

Following feedback from last year’s successful debut event – which raised more than £4,000 for Cancer Research UK – organisers have added a second race distance and opened entry to anyone aged 13 and over.

“Feedback from last year, means we now have two events and we are open to age 13+,” said Adam Johnstone, co-organiser of the event.

“We've kept the price down and you can choose either a 400m swim and 5k run (£15) or a 200m swim and 3k run (£10), or walking is fine.

“If this is your first multi-disciplinary event, we will offer an onsite walk through to explain it all and answer any questions you may have.”

The swim will be held in the pool and the run will take place on the scenic paths around The Groe.

Local support for the aquathlon has once again been strong, with PAR Homes confirmed as headline sponsor.

“This sounds like a fabulous event, and when I found out that it was for The Bracken Trust, I didn't hesitate to offer my support,” said Paul Rowland, owner of PAR Homes.

“The charity does such amazing work and provides a vital service for those people living with cancer.”

The inaugural 2024 aquathlon drew 77 entrants ranging from age 19 to 74 and raised £4,284 – twice the amount organisers initially hoped for. It was launched by then-Mayor Cllr Gwyn Davies, who returned to hand out the medals.

This year’s event is once again being driven by local volunteers and businesses.

Co-organiser Helen Tuite said said "We are so grateful to PAR Homes and the following organisations: Brecon Triathlon Club, BSW Timber, Builth Wells Financial Planning, Builth Wells Rotary, Builth Wells Garages (Suzuki), Co-op, Coyle Surfacing, Entry Central, Freedom Leisure, Geraint Jones Solicitors, GMB Branch F07, Hay & Brecon Farmers, Indian Ocean Restaurant, James Dean Estate Agents, Jewson, Powys County Council, Preserved Timber Products, Smithfield Tractors, The White Horse Pub, Water Cooler Wales and What’s My Time.

“Without their generosity, we wouldn't be able to run this fabulous event.”

To help participants prepare, Freedom Leisure Builth is offering a special swim or fitness membership deal for all signed-up athletes. The pool is also hosting a Swimfit session every Tuesday for those who want to work on their technique – interested participants are encouraged to contact the pool for details.

The closing date for entries is Sunday August 3, and organisers hope even more local people will get involved this year, whether running, walking or cheering from the sidelines.

To enter, just go to www.entrycentral.com/builthwellsaquathlon2025 or to join the Facebook page for more information: facebook.com/groups/builthwellsaquathlon

For questions, call Helen Tuite on 07941 416303.

The Bracken Trust charity provides support, advice and counselling to families affected by cancer in Wales. Located in a beautiful, secluded premises in Llandrindod Wells, the charity offers help by providing information, advice, support, counselling and complementary therapies to anyone affected by cancer.

Visit brackentrust.org.uk for more information.