In a startling revelation, Margo, a competitor on the BBC's popular series Race Across the World, has disclosed a harrowing experience from a solo journey to Costa Rica that occurred before her appearance on the show. The contestant, who is racing alongside her brother-in-law Mark in the thrilling program, was mugged at knifepoint during her independent adventure, underscoring the risks she has faced in her travels.
Dangerous Encounter Overseas
Speaking exclusively to the BBC, Margo recounted the incident, stating, "I have been on one adventure trip to Costa Rica in recent years, but I got into so much trouble and danger." She elaborated that someone attempted to mug her with a knife, a situation she attributed to ignoring local warnings. "I was told not to go out after nine o'clock and I was out at 10 o'clock, so I did what I was told not to do. It was not Costa Rica's fault; I was warned about that," she explained, taking responsibility for the mishap.
Adventurous Spirit and Preparation
Margo also highlighted her unconventional approach to the trip, which may have contributed to the danger. "But also, I was just doing every adventurous thing I could on the trip. I didn't take a rucksack, I took a wheelie suitcase, because I didn't even think," she admitted. This candid reflection reveals her spontaneous and daring nature, traits that likely prepared her for the challenges of Race Across the World.
Background and Family Bonds
When questioned about her previous backpacking experiences, Margo discussed her late sister Julia, noting their contrasting travel preferences. "Julia didn't like to backpack; it wasn't for her, she liked luxury. I backpacked a lot," she said, as reported by the Liverpool Echo. She added, "I did some brilliant inter-railing when I was young, but I very much left that behind a long time ago." This background sets the stage for her current adventure with Mark.
In the first episode of Race Across The World, Margo and Mark delved into their bond, shaped by their shared care for Julia. Mark reflected on his late wife, saying, "It's a continuation of journeys of caring for Julia. It's the next step. Margo would come for four or five days and would sit with Julia all day in hospital, which was something I couldn't do - I could not sit down." He praised Margo's comforting role, while he handled practical matters like appointments and medications.
Race Across the World Details
The BBC series, which returned last week, features five duos competing in an extraordinary race across multiple countries for a £20,000 prize. Contestants must abandon smartphones and credit cards, embracing an unprecedented adventure. This season, they will traverse over 12,000 kilometers through Italy, Greece, Türkiye, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Mongolia, starting in Palermo, Sicily, and aiming for Hatgal, a remote village on Lake Hövsgöl in northern Mongolia.
Margo's knifepoint mugging in Costa Rica adds a layer of drama to her participation, showcasing her resilience and adventurous spirit. Race Across The World continues to captivate audiences, with new episodes airing tonight at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
