Coleg y Cymoedd learners create first ever rhino wheelchair costume for London Marathon

Over 150 Coleg y Cymoedd learners have teamed up with conservation charity, Save The Rhino International, to create the first ever bespoke rhino wheelchair costume that will charge through the London Marathon this April to raise awareness of rhino conservation across the world, improve their skills in a unique practical project, and promote accessibility in endurance events.

For the last eight months, learners from Creative Industries, Engineering and Vocational Access have been busy creating a distinctive wheelchair rhino adapted costume that will be worn by seasoned Welsh Wheelchair Rugby League player, Martin Turner, on the famous 26.2-mile route this month.

One of the biggest cross-department projects the college has ever undertaken, the experience has given learners a unique opportunity to support an important cause while putting their practical skills to the test alongside one of the industry’s leading professionals, famous puppeteer and Save the Rhino International patron, William Todd-Jones, who first run the marathon wearing a rhino costume he had designed 30 years ago.

Learners have worked closely with Todd, Martin, and Martin’s WRL teammates over the course of several workshops to construct a new costume and ensure it meets the challenges of the marathon course, while prioritising safety and accessibility for him.

In addition, they have restored nine more costumes to their former glory, including the one that Todd first wore thirty years ago. These costumes have been dismantled and mended so that other runners can wear them in marathons and extreme sports events around the globe and continue the tradition.

One learner taking part in the rhino restoration project is Ray Munro, who is currently studying Entry Level 3 Creative Arts and Media at the college.

They said: “During the time working on the project, we learnt not only about costume construction but also about rhino conservation and the work of Save the Rhino International and it felt good to know I was contributing even in a small part to their effort. The opportunity to be a part of this project is definitely something I will cherish always, and I look forward to seeing the rhinos in the London marathon.”

Rosa Watts, a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design learner added: “I thoroughly enjoyed working with Todd and the rest of the team to help complete the rhinos in time for the London marathon. The process really developed my team working skills and I gained valuable insights into how the industry works.”

Commenting on the opportunity for Coleg y Cymoedd Vocational Access learners to be involved with the project, Construction tutor, Donna Jones, called the project “a heartening collaboration” where a “remarkable synergy has emerged, blending conservation with skill-building in an inspiring fashion”.

She continued: “our learners honed an array of transferrable skills including problem solving and communication. Through their involvement, they’ve not only gained practical experience but also a deeper understanding of environmental conservation and the importance of community engagement.”

Alistair Aston, course leader and creative industries co-ordinator at Coleg y Cymoedd, said: “It has been an honour to join forces with Save the Rhino International, bringing new life to their iconic costumes and we’re thrilled to have played a part in spreading Save the Rhino International’s message, inspiring action for conservation and inclusivity.

“Many of the learners who have taken part in the construction of the new rhino costume, alongside the re-modelling of the old are entry level access learners, who have historically had very little opportunity to take part in such a unique and worthwhile project. The opportunities presented by the Rhino project extend far beyond skill acquisition; it’s been a chance to be part of something bigger than themselves, to contribute meaningfully to the preservation of wildlife. Through their involvement, they’ve not only gained practical experience but also a deeper understanding of environmental conservation and the importance of community engagement.”

Save the Rhino International was formally established as a UK charity in 1994, with the vision for all five rhino species to thrive in the wild. The money raised during the marathon will go towards the conservation of endangered rhinos in Africa and Asia. The project has evolved in close collaboration with Wild Connect, a company that reconnects local schools with the wild, South Wales Valleys based Orangebox, the international smart-working furniture company, Mark3D industrial 3D printers, and Motivation, an international disability inclusion charity and social enterprise that supplied the wheelchair for the costume.

Jo Shaw, CEO of Save the Rhino International, added: “Since 1992, the London Marathon has been a crucial event for Save the Rhino, raising more than £2 million and, crucially, highlighting the importance of rhino conservation to new audiences on a world stage. Through events like this and with the help of institutions like Coleg y Cymoedd, we can continue to achieve significant milestones in rhino conservation and bring more people together to make a positive difference for our world.”

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