Paddy McGuinness kicks off Children in Need Endurance Cycle Challenge in Wrexham!
Published: Monday, November 11, 2024
This morning in Wrexham, presenter and comedian Paddy McGuinness began his Ultra Endurance Cycle Challenge for BBC Children in Need on Radio 2.
The star of Phoenix Nights and Radio 2 presenter is gearing up to ride a Raleigh Chopper for 300 miles, starting from Wrexham AFC and heading to Glasgow, all in support of this Friday’s Children in Need event.
Prior to embarking on his journey from The Racecourse, Paddy had a conversation with Dot Davies and James Williams from BBC Radio Wales, sharing his experiences of training alongside Sir Chris Hoy.
"It's similar to being a soccer enthusiast and getting the chance to play a match with Messi," Paddy elaborated.
If you're a cyclist, you'd do anything to train alongside him. His motivation helps me push through tough training sessions, and he's genuinely a joy to be with.
He further elaborated on his decision to pick the chopper bike for his challenge. "I've always wanted one but could never afford it. It's so iconic, and I really love its design."
"This is going to be the highlight of the event; kids are going to enjoy it immensely, and parents will likely feel nostalgic, reminiscing about their own childhood experiences."
Chris Hoy sent a note to Paddy, saying, “It’s clear that this will be the hardest challenge you’ve ever faced. There's no question about it."
The upcoming five days are going to be tough. It’s going to be one hill after another. Paddy, you need to keep going on your little bike.
“This will be five challenging days spent navigating harsh landscapes, but when the going gets tough, keep in mind the reason behind your journey.”
"You’re taking on this challenge to motivate the country. You’re doing it for Children in Need, and we’re all supporting you. Keep in mind that with every mile you pedal, you’re one step closer to finishing this journey."
"Paddy, you’re amazing, and no matter what happens, we’re really proud of you. Now, hop on your bike!"
Michael Sheen, the actor, sent a voice message to Paddy: "Hey Paddy, it’s your old friend Michael Sheen speaking."
"This is truly an amazing initiative you're undertaking. I want to back you in every way I can, so to motivate both of us, I'm planning to ride my bike too! I'm going to start from this wall over here and pedal all the way to that wall on the other side."
"If I can manage it, *grunts*, so can you, my friend! Wishing you the best of luck, *grunts*! You've got this!"
Today, from 7:45 to 8:15 AM, Zoe Ball featured a conversation with Paddy on her Radio 2 Breakfast Show, giving him a great send-off. You can catch up on their discussion by clicking here. Don't forget, you can pause and rewind the live show to transcribe the conversation. After the live broadcast ends, it will also be available on BBC Sounds.
You can track Paddy McGuinness's journey using the Tracker.
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