The YMCA Invercargill is hosting a charity ‘spinathon’ on Saturday 30th April, including 10 hours of consecutive spin classes to raising money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

General Manager of YMCA Jason Holland will be spinning all day as he attempts to climb the virtual height of Mt Everest, a total of 8848.86 metres.

Participants are encouraged to join a class or a have a go session throughout the day, with payment a donation to the charity.

Holland says although he is expecting a tough day out, the initiative is about supporting an important cause and he hopes people would join the fun.

“We see it as a win-win – you’re getting a spin class or the chance to have a go at spin, so you’re benefitting, but you’re also donating to an awesome cause, so you should feel twice as good afterwards,” he says.

Activities will alternate between a spin class and a have-a-go/freestyle spin session each hour between 8am and 6pm, and there is even a karaoke spin session with local musician Liv Cochrane between 5pm and 6pm.

Holland said the event fitted well with the YMCA’s ethos of being for the community.

“We really value the impact physical activity can have on a person’s life, so combining activity with charity, that’s a great fit for the Y,” he says.

Funds raised will be going to the local trust - Lakes District Air Rescue Trust, which has been operating for 25 years.

The Trust operates rescue helicopters from bases in Queenstown, Te Anau and Dunedin.

The Trust’s turnover is $1.2millon p.a., with only 50% funded by the Government and the rest from community fundraising.

Organisers say the spinathon is one of several events which be held throughout May to raise funds.

Bookings for the Spinathon can be made to the YMCA, email [email protected] or call 03 218 2989.