Strictly Come Dancing star Sam Quek has been welcomed into her new presenting role on ITV, marking a significant moment for the Olympic gold medalist. Quek, who also competed in the popular dance competition, is set to join the ITV Racing team for the Grand National event next month at Aintree.
Joining forces with commentator Oli Bell, Quek will be part of the social stable across ITV’s extensive coverage of the Grand National from Thursday, April 3, 2025, until Saturday, April 5, 2025. This year’s event promises to be exceptional, featuring 17 races, including the highly anticipated Randox Grand National at 4 PM on April 5, 2025.
Sharing her excitement about the upcoming role, Quek expressed, “Being from Liverpool, I’ve grown up with the Grand National. Each year my entire family would gather at the house and we'd sit around the television to cheer our horses home. I attended for the first time in 2017 and it’s something I’ll never forget.”
Quek’s connection to the Grand National extends beyond nostalgia; it reflects her upbringing in the region, highlighting a tradition that unites families annually. She continued, “I can't wait to be part of the ITV Racing team this year, interacting with the incredible people around the course and the millions more watching at home.”
This new venture into broadcasting is not Quek’s first foray into television. The professional hockey player has previously appeared on various notable programs, including I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, A Question of Sport, and Celebrity Mastermind. Last year, she graced the floor of Strictly Come Dancing, partnering with Nikita Kuzmin, where they charmed audiences during their time in the competition. Despite being eliminated in the seventh week after a nail-biting dance-off against Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe, Quek has carried fond memories of her time in the show, stating, “It’s a bit weird coming back and being in this situation, but ultimately I am still proud of what I achieved.”
While reminiscing about her time on Strictly, she reflected on her departure, saying, “I’m mega proud but I still wasn’t ready to go – I feel like I could’ve given more. But that’s the nature of the competition.” Quek’s tenure on Strictly showcased her versatility and ability to connect with the audience, qualities that will undoubtedly serve her well in her new role with ITV.
The announcement of her involvement in the Grand National comes amidst notable changes in the broadcasting landscape. Previously, A Question of Sport, a beloved TV fixture for over 50 years, notably was shelved two years ago due to budget constraints and other factors. The show's abrupt end left some long-time fans disappointed, illustrating the challenges faced by reality and sports programming in today's evolving media market.
Despite these setbacks in the world of British television, Quek’s emerging role shines a light on a promising new chapter. Her social media announcement was met with enthusiasm, with many fans offering well wishes and positive comments. One tweet read, “Great signing!” while another stated, “Good luck covering the Grand National, I can't wait.”
As Sam Quek prepares for her debut at Aintree, she embodies the blend of sport and entertainment, bringing her personal experiences and passion to a new audience. The upcoming Grand National is not just another race; for Quek, it's a lifelong dream fulfilled. Her journey from athlete to media personality marks a significant transition, showcasing the potential for athletes to excel beyond their sporting careers.
The Grand National coverage will be crucial for ITV, aiming to engage a broad viewership and reinvigorate interests in racing events. For viewers tuning in, the race is not merely a competition of horses, but a celebration of culture and community. It reflects the enduring spirit of the Grand National, one of Britain's most cherished horse racing events.
As the days count down to the event, all eyes will be on Quek, who is poised to bring a fresh perspective to the ITV coverage. Her commitment to engaging with the audience, coupled with her personal ties to the Grand National, positions her as an ideal presenter for this high-profile event.
Overall, Sam Quek's role in the Grand National coverage represents more than just her new job; it symbolizes a celebration of heritage and sport that resonates deeply within the British consciousness. Her journey is just beginning, and fans eagerly await to witness her contributions during one of the year's most prestigious horse racing events.
