Vernon Kay tears up after 'painful' ultramarathon raises an incredible £5m
Vernon Kay was moved to tears on completion of his ultramarathon on Friday, after raising a staggering £5million for Children in Need.
Despite his longest training run being only 8 miles, the TV presenter managed to smash the record for his charity challenge. He began his journey on Tuesday morning and crossed the finish line at Bolton Wanderers Stadium today at 10.30am, an hour later than planned, after setting off at 5.45am this morning. His proud parents Gladys and Norman, along with many family members, were there to greet him as he made his triumphant arrival.
The 49-year-old became emotional when he met listener Barbara, who had written him a touching letter about how his Radio 2 show had "brought an old lady into the light." Speaking to Zoe Ball, he said: "I am absolutely exhausted - physically, mentally, there's nothing in the tank. But it's been unbelievable, one of the most painful and joyous experiences I've ever had."
Vernon Kay has raised over £5million for charity for his incredible ultramarathon (BBC)In a lighter moment, he jokingly asked the crowd: "Is there anyone here who can replace a knee?" Still reeling from the intense journey, he shared that the best part of the run was hearing stories from those who had donated. "We've met some brilliant people who have donated what they can," he said, noting one person who could only afford £1.15 but donated it anyway.
He also expressed his gratitude towards the team of fitness experts, including the marines who accompanied him, joking: "If it wasn't for you we'd still be in Leicester." When Zoe Ball revealed they had brought Barbara, the letter-writer, to meet him following a 'Bring Barbara to Bolton' hashtag campaign, he responded emotionally: "Tess has had it framed. It's in the kitchen and I walk past it every day. It brings me into the sunshine - I will cherish it forever."
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As for the most challenging part of the four-day-long event, Vernon said his hardest point came during the eight hour trek over Kinder Scout. "I never want to see that hill again," he confessed.
As of Friday evening, Vernon had raised over £5m for Children in Need with his ultramarathon. He has been understandably inundated with praise for his accomplishment, with many people flocking to his Instagram to commend him on the impressive feat.
"You did it!!!! So so proud. I’ve followed your whole journey and donated. So so well done Vernon!!!!" one person wrote, while another said, "Amazing job. He has lifted us all up and worked his backside off to raise the money. It’s a shame he wasn’t given more airtime on TV tonight, though."
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