BBC DJ Sara Cox Embarks on 135-Mile Ultramarathon for Children in Need
BBC Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox has launched an ambitious ultramarathon challenge to raise funds for Children in Need. Starting from Kielder Forest on the English-Scottish border on Monday morning, her goal is to reach Hexham in Northumberland by evening, then continue south to finish in Pudsey, Yorkshire, by Friday.
The route covers 135 miles, equivalent to running over five marathons in five days. Sara will carry Children in Need’s Pudsey Bear throughout the journey, marking the mascot's 40th anniversary.
About the Challenge
This endurance test, named the Great Northern Marathon Challenge, is intended to push Sara to her limits in the spirit of fundraising and raising awareness.
“It’s a terrifying privilege, it’s a terrifying, scary, very tiring privilege to do this… so I’ve trained hard and I’m ready for it. You have no choice but to say yes because it’s a chance to raise lots of money and change lives.” – Sara Cox on BBC Breakfast
Support from Colleagues
“This is the toughest challenge, simply put, that we have ever put one of our presenters through… way harder than Vernon’s. It’s brutal this one.” – DJ Scott Mills
Sara follows in the footsteps of Vernon Kay and Paddy McGuinness, taking on what is described as the toughest endurance challenge yet for a BBC presenter.
Event Highlights
- Starting Point: Kielder Forest
- First Target: Hexham, Northumberland
- Final Destination: Pudsey, Yorkshire
- Distance: 135 miles over five days
- Significance: 40th anniversary of Pudsey Bear
Her determination and commitment emphasize the event’s goal of raising significant funds to impact lives positively through Children in Need.
Summary: Sara Cox is undertaking a grueling 135-mile ultramarathon for Children in Need, carrying Pudsey Bear in honor of its 40th anniversary, demonstrating dedication to a challenging cause.