SORE arms and blisters were the signs of a job well done as Rhyl Raptors hosted a 12-hour wheelchair basketball marathon to raise money and awareness for the upcoming season.
The event at Rhyl Leisure Centre saw players, parents and non-playing volunteers get on-court from 8am to 8pm, with some even taking part in the full session!
As well as drawing attention to wheelchair basketball in Rhyl - the day after Team GB won silver in the Paralympic final against the USA - the event also served as an opportunity for young talent to try the sport and show what they can do as the club’s young players and future stars took to the court.
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Rhyl Raptors hosting wheelchair basketball marathon fundraiser
Funds raised are still being counted and will help cover the fees for the upcoming season, with Raptors returning to competitive basketball after a few years away, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to play.
The event was also supported by local businesses including DayClox, Neena Butties and Bakes, Dyserth Butchers and Parveen Coffee.
Raptors coach and founder Mike Hayes said Team GB's success had helped boost the event.
"It’s been amazing," he said. "At the hall before we started, everyone was talking about the game and how amazing it was to see how the Americans played and how the Brits had done over the tournament.
"It’s definitely inspired a new group of players. We’ve had people come for the first time expressing an interest in the game on the back of that, so that’s exactly why we’re doing what we’re doing - to jump on the back of that and hopefully encourage a few more people to take up the sport."
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