BBC Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox has completed an extraordinary 135-mile ultramarathon, pushing through relentless rain, brutal climbs, and overwhelming physical pain to raise more than £7.6 million for BBC Children in Need.
You can still donate here
Her Great Northern Marathon Challenge began on Monday in Kielder Forest on the Scottish–English border. Over five days she travelled to Pudsey, Yorkshire, covering the equivalent of more than five marathons across steep, unforgiving terrain. She also carried the famous Pudsey Bear mascot for the entire journey to mark its 40th anniversary.
A Grueling Test of Endurance
From the second day onward, it was clear just how punishing the challenge would be. Cox fought constant rain, long climbs, painful downhill sections, and mounting fatigue. She was often in tears from the strain, but stayed committed with the help of cheering crowds, messages from fellow BBC presenters, and even encouragement from Prince William, who told her:
“You’re so nearly there… the nation is so proud of you.”
Supporters lined the streets as she approached Pudsey on Friday afternoon, pushing her through the final climbs and toward the finish.
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“The Hardest Thing I’ve Ever Done”
Crossing the finish line shortly after 3:30pm, Cox was emotional and overwhelmed:
“That was the hardest thing I’ve ever done… I’ve never known pain like it.
I was ready for the distance, but I was not ready for the hills — and the downhills were agony.”
Speaking on Radio 2 afterward, she added:
“Nothing’s hurting now because I’m so buzzing. I wish I could bottle this feeling.”
“The whole ‘woman of a certain age’ thing, we’re not having it!”
Cox joins a growing list of BBC personalities taking on major physical challenges for Children in Need:
- Vernon Kay raised £6M in 2023 after running 115 miles.
- Paddy McGuinness raised £10.3M last year by cycling 300 miles from Wrexham to Glasgow on a Raleigh Chopper.
With donations already surpassing £7.6 million, Cox’s ultramarathon is set to be one of Children in Need’s biggest fundraising efforts yet.
Supporters can still donate via bbc.co.uk/sara and BOXROX is hoping to speak to Sara very soon to hear about the challenge!
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