Radio 2’s Sara Cox Takes On 135-Mile Charity Challenge
Radio and television presenter Sara Cox, 50, is preparing for an extraordinary endurance challenge across northern England to raise funds for BBC Children in Need. From Monday to Friday, she will cover the equivalent of five marathons—135 miles—on foot, starting at Kielder Forest near the Scottish borders and finishing in Leeds.
This journey has personal significance as she will carry Pudsey, the charity’s mascot, to his namesake hometown in West Yorkshire. Pudsey was designed by graphic artist Joanna Lane, a native of that town. This challenge marks Radio 2’s longest ever.
“I'm not Mo Farah, I'm not going to be running these each day. I'm going to be doing a mixture of running, walking, a light trot and then just stumbling along doing ugly crying on the telly whilst possibly swearing quite a lot.”
Despite having a current knee issue, Cox is determined to keep going. She reflects on the motivation behind her commitment:
“Nothing gets you to the gym like the thought of letting down lots of children, not raising money for charities, you know what I mean? National humiliation and letting everybody down. That really does make you pep up and pop your trainers on and go to the gym.”
Character and Perseverance
Sara Cox has remained a prominent figure in broadcasting thanks to her relentless work ethic and cheerful attitude. This challenge is set to push those qualities to the limit as she combines running, walking, and even emotional moments on camera during the five-day trek.
Upcoming Schedule
- Start: Monday at Kielder Forest near the Scottish Borders
- Finish: Friday in Leeds, West Yorkshire
- Distance: 135 miles (approx. five marathons)
- Purpose: Fundraising for BBC Children in Need
- Companion: Pudsey mascot, symbol of the charity
Author’s summary: Sara Cox embraces a tough 135-mile journey to support Children in Need, blending determination and humor despite physical challenges.