Inverness athlete's smooth display for good cause

AN Inverness athlete has gone through the pain of waxing to raise funds for a sports association.

John McWilliams (23), from Inverness Pole and Aerial Circus, had his legs waxed in aid of the British Pole and Aerial Sport Federation, raising more than £250.

Instructor and federation founding president Aimee Lawson-Hill explained that, as the discipline is not recognised as an official sport in the UK, donations are essential to allow athletes to take part in competitions internationally.

She said: “It’s very difficult for us not being a recognised sport, and being less known and visible than other sports means it’s also very difficult to attract sponsors.

“The UK has so many talented athletes at international level and it’s a shame that the financial support is so difficult to find. This is the first time in five years that we are able to organise a national event – the championship will take place in Bristol at the end of July.”

She added: “The leg wax challenge was a great success with the live stream on Facebook and we really had a good time, it was hilarious! Well, probably a bit less so for John, I think he hates me a bit now but hopefully he’ll be my friend again soon!”

After the challenge Mr McWilliams said: “I was definitely relieved that the waxing was over and I am very proud of myself for managing to make it through it all ,especially because it was a lot more painful than I thought it was going to be.

“I was very happy with the outcome of the fundraiser because it’s all going towards a cause that means a lot to me and it’s going to provide so many opportunities for so many people.”

The Inverness studio regularly organises fundraisers to support the federation and the athletes, such as climbing Ben Nevis with a portable pole, and they are aiming to do the same again this year with a hoop.

* You can make a donation by going online at www.gofundme.com/f/johns-charity-leg-wax

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