Paddy McGuinness is gearing up for a big challenge after Vernon Kay’s impressive fundraising efforts for Children in Need last year. Vernon raised an incredible £6million with his Ultra Marathon, and now Paddy is ready to start his Ultra Endurance Cycle Challenge. Starting in Wrexham, north Wales, Paddy will pedal almost 300 miles through eight counties and three nations, aiming to finish in Glasgow on November 15.
“I’ll be cycling from Wrexham to Glasgow. That’s 300 miles, eight counties and three nations. ‘No likey, no bikey’ just isn’t an option! As a kid, I didn’t have much and used to be really jealous of my mates riding around on those bikes, so I’m really honoured to support BBC Children in Need by getting peddling to raise as much money as possible for the charity. After seeing Vernon’s incredible efforts last year – no pressure then!” Paddy said.
Vernon, who knows the challenge Paddy is about to face, expressed his support: “I know exactly what Paddy will be going through so I and the rest of our Radio 2 buddies will be supporting him every pedal of the way, especially up all those hills – ouch!” A BBC TV crew will be documenting Paddy’s journey for a behind-the-scenes look at the challenge.
BBC Children in Need Chief Executive, Simon Antrobus, commended Paddy for taking on this extraordinary challenge to benefit children and young people facing significant challenges across the UK. He encouraged Radio 2 listeners to support Paddy by taking on their own fundraising challenges.
In the past, other celebrities like Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Joe Wicks, and Rylan have undertaken challenges to raise money for Children in Need. Vernon himself raised over £6million last year, and despite the physical toll it took on him, he was proud of the outcome. He shared, “Well my Achilles is shot to bits, that’s completely gone, I’ve got to have a little bit of work on that. The knees are achy, calves are sore, thighs and quads, gluteus maximus is a little bit achy as well. But that’s to be expected. And apart from that… we raised 6 million quid!”
Paddy McGuinness’s upcoming challenge is not only a physical test but also a testament to his dedication to supporting children in need. His efforts, along with the support of the public, will make a difference in the lives of many young individuals across the country. Let’s cheer on Paddy as he embarks on this incredible journey for a great cause!