BBC broadcaster Sara Cox has opened up about the deeply personal motivation behind her remarkable 135-mile running challenge for Children in Need.
The 50-year-old completed five marathons in five days, ultimately raising an astonishing £10,169,084 for the charity.
A Brother’s Memory Fueled the Challenge
In the behind-the-scenes documentary Sara Cox: Every Step of the Way for Children in Need, viewers saw Sara reveal the family tragedy that inspired her feat.
“My brother David died really suddenly in 2019, and it completely destroyed all of us,” she shared.
“He was a proper athlete—Ironman competitions, countless runs.
I don’t think he’d believe I’m doing this, but I hope I’ve borrowed a bit of his strength along the way.”
Tears Flow as Stories of Families Impact Viewers
Throughout the documentary, Sara struggled to hold back tears while listening to recordings of families recounting their own experiences.
Fans quickly took to social media to express admiration, with one posting: “14 minutes in and already bawling. Amazing lady.”
The Physical Toll of Five Marathons in Five Days
Speaking on Radio 1 Breakfast Show with Scott Mills, Sara admitted the challenge was far tougher than expected. Her recovery was slow and painful.
“I thought I’d just take the dogs for a gentle walk after finishing, but I couldn’t really walk,” she laughed.
Her swollen, sore feet forced her to wrestle into a pair of Crocs after crossing each finish line.
Route and Rituals: From Durham to Pudsey
Sara’s journey took her through Durham, North Yorkshire, and West Yorkshire, with a Pudsey Bear backpack accompanying her along the route. Music became her secret weapon.
“Chase & Status and Stormzy’s Backbone kept me going,” she explained.
“And I’m so sorry to my kids for all the times I sang along like a mad woman!”
Words of Support from Fans and Royals
Messages of encouragement poured in from all corners.
Even Prince William recorded a heartfelt video message, praising Sara for her dedication and assuring her of a warm Pudsey welcome.
“You’ve done fantastically well, and the nation is proud of you,” he said.
Reflecting on £10 Million Raised
Sara was quick to credit her supporters for the monumental fundraising total.
“Our £10 million is the fivers, tenners, and twenties from Radio 2 listeners and Children in Need fans. It means the world,” she said.
She dedicated the funds to children helped by the charity, especially those who have faced bullying or physical challenges, recalling her own experiences of being teased at school.
Celebrating with Friends and Music
Even Stormzy sent a personal message, congratulating Sara for completing “five marathons in five days—insane!” She revealed that his voice and the track Backbone gave her an extra boost during the most grueling moments of the run.
A Triumph of Strength, Dedication, and Heart
Sara Cox’s Great Northern Marathon Challenge was more than a record-breaking athletic feat.
It was a deeply human story of loss, determination, and community, uniting thousands of supporters behind a cause that touches lives across the UK.
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