BBC Radio Berkshire Swimmers Find Renewed Vigor in Children in Need Challenge

The BBC Radio Berkshire swim team has experienced renewed energy during their Children in Need challenge. Groups from BBC radio stations across the UK are participating in The Thousand Mile Challenge, with each station aiming to complete 24 miles (38.6km) throughout the week. The Berkshire team comprises presenters Phil Mercer and Rena Annobil, as well as journalists Sali Shobowale, Katherine Bett, and Ben Pritchard. According to the team, while Tuesday’s swimming sessions were “tough,” morale significantly improved by Wednesday. To date, the team has visited various leisure centres across the county, collectively completing almost 1,000 lengths. Ms Annobil commented, “Yesterday I was very tired but I’ve got a second wind today.” She added, “I was that tired I got home and had a million things to do and ended up just staring into space.” Breakfast show presenter Mr Mercer commended his colleague’s “amazing form” in the pool, noting that she was “so graceful.” He further stated, “Compared to this time yesterday I actually feel really good – yesterday was the worst day.” Ms Shobowale reiterated the sentiments of her teammates, remarking, “I’m feeling much better today, not as tired and fatigued as yesterday – but it’s still a big challenge.” While completing her 47 lengths, Ms Shobowale kept Pudsey ears on her head. She explained, “I should have taken them off, but I actually think it gives me a bit of a morale boost and a bit of encouragement to remind me why I’m doing it.” In contrast to some of her teammates who focused on fatigue or their headwear, Ms Bett’s primary concern revolved around the pace of the swimmers near her. She recounted, “I went in the fast lane and, oh my god, honestly I was then having to swim really fast so it felt like I was being chased all the way round.” She concluded, “I’m knackered now but it was good.” Further information is available at bbc.co.uk/swim. BBC Berkshire can be followed on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Details regarding our external linking policy can be reviewed.