Tragedy inspired Zoe’s cycle challenge
ZOE BALL yesterday told how her boyfriend’s death led her to sign up for a gruelling Sport Relief challenge – saying it was “important that I did something”.
The presenter, 47, will be cycling more than 300 miles in just five days to raise awareness of mental health.
The subject is close to her heart following the death of her partner Billy Yates, who struggled with depression. He was found dead at his home last May, aged 40. Speaking of what inspired her to take up the challenge, the Strictly: It Takes Two host said: “I lost someone very dear to me who really struggled with depression and so it was really important that I did something.”
She said she had suffered “embarrassing falls” during training for the challenge but thinking about the reason she signed up had kept her motivated. The mother-of-two will cycle from her birthplace of Blackpool to her hometown of Brighton.
She said: “I’ve been training my heart out for the last few weeks in preparation. Knowing every penny we raise will make a difference to so many people’s lives is a great feeling.
“I’ll also be joined by my family and friends, who will be pushing me along the way. I hope my endeavours inspire others to do something that moves them for Sport Relief too!” Ball’s challenge will be broadcast in a BBC1 documentary, which will air during Sport Relief week, from March 17.
The novice cyclist will set off on March 5 and attempt to cover 70 miles on the first day alone.
Greg James and Alex Jones are also taking on challenges with all three of the BBC presenters leading a nationwide charge for Britons to reach a collective one billion steps a day over the course of a week.