BBC's Race Across The World viewers have pointed out a significant issue during the latest episode, with many convinced that contestant Margo, 59, is treating the competition like a “holiday.”
Margo and her brother-in-law Mark, 66, are one of several duos racing across more than 12,000 kilometres through Europe and Asia on a restricted budget, aiming to win £20,000. In Thursday’s (April 30) instalment, the teams reached the halfway point and faced the longest leg of the race, travelling through Kazakhstan and into Uzbekistan.
Margo and Mark started well, securing a free lift to the train station from a local. However, with only a few hours before their train departed, Margo insisted on stopping at the Caspian Sea, the world's largest lake, spanning an area the size of Japan and shared by five nations.
Their driver asked, “Should we go Caspian Sea before the train station?” Mark was hesitant, replying, “No, we want the station.” But Margo jumped in, saying, “I think he wants to show us the Caspian Sea. We’re getting a bit of a tour here.” Mark was not impressed, but Margo insisted, “This is what we like – adventure. The adventure of a lifetime. Kazakhstan.”
The duo stopped to enjoy the view, but the detour had consequences: they missed their train and had to wait until the next morning. After catching the 8.30am train, Margo wasted no time engaging with locals, even enjoying vodka with them at breakfast despite Mark's reluctance. Margo left Mark and joined the men for several shots.
Viewers at home were quick to criticise Margo's approach. One said, “#raceacrosstheworld they still dont realise ITS A RACE.” Another added, “They should’ve come back and looked at the Caspian Sea on a separate holiday. You’re there to race not to sightsee #raceacrosstheworld.” A third commented, “Margo is a vodka drinker – things are about to get chaotic #RaceAcrossTheWorld.”
However, some viewers appreciated Margo's spirit. One wrote, “Honestly Margo's confidence and positivity is amazing! #RaceAcrossTheWorld,” while another said, “Margot needs her own travel show after this, she’s brilliant #RaceAcrossTheWorld.”
Race Across the World is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
