Sara Cox broke down in tears during a BBC Children in Need documentary as she spoke about her brother's sudden death, which inspired her record-breaking charity run. The Radio 2 presenter completed the 135-mile Great Northern Marathon Challenge, five marathons across five days, raising over £9.5 million for the charity.
Cox's brother David, a dedicated Ironman athlete, died unexpectedly in 2019 at age 56 from an undiagnosed heart condition. Speaking about the loss, Cox said: 'It completely destroyed all the family, like it came out of nowhere.' She added: 'I don't think he'd be able to believe I'm doing this. I think he'd be super proud.'
The documentary, aired on Wednesday, November 19, showed Cox battling severe conditions, shin pain, and exhaustion as she trekked from Kielder Forest to Pudsey. She was supported by a crew including Olympian Greg Whyte and on-call physiotherapists. Crowds lined the route in Northumberland, Durham, North Yorkshire, and West Yorkshire, waving homemade banners and Pudsey bears.
Cox also paid tribute to children with mobility issues, saying: 'This is for all the children who walk funny or have wonky legs and get picked on like I did in school.' Viewers were moved to tears, with one writing: '14 minutes in and already bawling... Amazing lady.' Another said: 'Crying again at the amazing Sara Cox. What an absolute legend.'
Celebrity supporters including Prince William, Mel C, Dame Judi Dench, Ant & Dec, and Rod Stewart sent messages of encouragement. At the finish line, Cox was greeted by cheering crowds, a performance from Mel C, and a Red Arrows display. The challenge marked her first time completing more than 5km.
