The countdown has begun for Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton as they prepare for their daunting challenge: a 24-hour roller-skating marathon, dubbed "Gethin and Helen's Wheely Big Challenge," set for March 20, 2025. The presenters of BBC's Morning Live are gearing up for this strenuous event for Comic Relief, but both have expressed their concerns about the toll it might take on their friendship.
At 47, Gethin admits that skating is not his strong suit. As he recalled an embarrassing incident at a Manchester roller disco during half-term, he shared, "I went to Archie's Atomic... I wasn't even allowed on the rink; I had to go around the side with full pads and a helmet. I've never felt like such a loser." Despite this, he is committed to this year’s challenge, having previously danced non-stop for 24 hours for the same cause in 2023, an experience he described as one of the best of his life.
As the duo prepares to lace up their skates bright and early on March 20, Gethin is grateful to have Helen by his side. He commented, "What's different this time is that we have each other. We're best friends. We're very honest with one another," acknowledging that the challenge could test their friendship. With the journey set to start and a full night of skating ahead, he admits, "When I was dancing at 3 AM, I thought, 'This is hard. You've got hours to go.'" The prospect of staying awake for 24 hours is daunting, but they’re determined to make it work.
Throughout their training, Gethin has turned to the internet for help. "I watch YouTube videos to figure out what I'm doing," he said, reflecting on the importance of online resources. His learning, however, has not been without its challenges. A particularly frustrating moment occurred when he struggled with a turn on his skates. "Jamie was giving me instructions... I couldn't get it right. It took me two hours to realize one of my skate wheels was stuck. I was fuming!" he exclaimed, sharing his initial struggles with the sport.
Despite the hurdles, Gethin has made significant progress, thanks to advice from skating expert Jamie Capewell and a new pair of boots. "I had a breakthrough after buying new boots. I did a turn without falling," he proudly announced. Such improvements, along with the encouragement from Helen, have boosted his confidence heading into the marathon.
Meanwhile, Helen has her fair share of apprehensions. As she gears up for the challenge, she admitted on BBC's Morning Live, "I was really naively excited about this, but I'm a bit scared now. It's going to be tough." With both presenters approaching the event with trepidation, their camaraderie will undoubtedly be put to the test as they push through the night.
As part of a broader effort to support Comic Relief, many other celebrities are also participating in various challenges leading up to Red Nose Day. Jamie Laing, another prominent figure, is currently engaged in a grueling 150-mile run from Kegworth to Matlock, running over five days. Billy Monger is attempting to become the youngest double-leg amputee to finish the Ironman World Championship in Kona, an event that is scheduled to be aired shortly. Additionally, popular stars James Buckley and Joe Thomas are participating in a comedic sketch for the charity.
The key event, Red Nose Day, is set to take place on March 21, 2025. The telethon is expected to air live from 7 PM on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Gethin and Helen’s challenge will wrap up during the live broadcast of Morning Live, showcasing their experiences and encouraging viewers to donate to the cause. Gethin said jokingly, "We finish at 10 and then head back to the studio to give our reactions. It's only 100 yards away, but we'll need a taxi. Or we'll skate there." Such humor lightens the pressure as the day unfolds.
In preparation, Gethin has also consulted with his doctor, who has humorously prescribed him more golf to help him relax. Balancing the demands of training and hosting on Morning Live has been a challenge for him. "I struggle to find a good balance," Gethin confessed, underscoring the intensity of his schedule.
With just days to go, the excitement and tension are palpable. The duo’s determination, paired with their friendship, will surely make for an unforgettable challenge. Their efforts will not only showcase their resilience but also contribute to the worthy cause of supporting those in need through the funds raised by Comic Relief. As the world tunes in for Red Nose Day, the weight of their task will be recognized—one that calls for not just physical endurance but the strength of friendship and collaboration.
