AS TEAM GB prepare for their Paralympic semi-final, wheelchair basketball club Rhyl Raptors is giving people the chance to try the sport for themselves with a 12-hour basketball marathon fundraiser.

On Sunday, September 8 the club will be hosting the event at Rhyl Leisure Centre from 8am to 8pm to give people the chance to try the sport and raise vital funds to help them compete this season.

And the event - which is expected to feature some surprise guests - could even discover the next Team GB Paralympian according to media officer Rhys Evitt.

"This is something we originally did about eight years ago," he said. "It's a great way for people to get to know us and to try a new sport.

"It is primarily for people with lower limb impairments but the sport is designed so that even people without disabilities can take part.

"We usually see a spike in people enquiring about the club during the Paralympics and this year has been no different. Who knows, we might even find our next Paralympic star!"

Rhyl Raptors have chairs and equipment so anyone can try the sport at their fundraiser this Sunday.Rhyl Raptors have chairs and equipment so anyone can try the sport at their fundraiser this Sunday. (Image: Rhyl Raptors)

That may seem like a lofty ambition, but Rhyl Raptors has produced some elite wheelchair basketball players over the years. 

"We've had players representing Team GB up to under-23 level in both the men's and women's teams," said Rhys. "So if you've always fancied giving it a try but you've not taken the plunge, come down on Sunday and have a go."

Anyone can take part in the fundraiser, which is supported by Limb-Art, a Rhyl business run by former Paralympic swimmer Mark Williams  making prosthetic leg covers, Celtic Strength which produces individual training plans for people with Cerebral Palsy and AMP Method, which offers coaching programmes to help people improve their fitness. 

Some of those who have already committed to take part have signed up for the full 12 hours while others are joining in in shorter slots, how much you do is up to you.

And don't worry if you've not got a wheelchair basketball chair - the Raptors have that covered too.

"We have a storeroom at Rhyl Leisure Centre with a range of chairs for all ages and sizes," said Rhys. "Don't let equipment be a barrier to participating, we have chairs, balls, everything you need to get started."

The fundraiser will help to pay for competition entry this season plus chairs, tyres and other equipment the club needs.

"Our goal is to grow the sport and give everyone who wants to play an opportunity to play," said Rhys. "That does however cost money. We are still building the club back up after Covid so any support is hugely welcome.

"Hopefully we can get plenty of people to come down and get involved, whether they know someone who plays here already or are totally new to the sport, and we can help give more people the chance to enjoy this fantastic game."