Race Across the World pairs unite for tribute run

Family handout

Participants from every series of BBC’s Race Across the World will run in memory of former contestant Sam Gardiner.

The 24-year-old died after his car, which had insufficient tyre tread, left the A34 near Manchester and rolled before landing on its side on 26 May 2025.

Some of the pairs from the current sixth series – including siblings Katie and Harrison along with Liverpudlian friends Jo and Kush – will take part in the Great Manchester Run on 31 May, marking a year since Sam’s death and raising funds for charity.

Emon Choudhury, who won the second series that featured Sam, said they had been “all brought together because one person left such a huge mark on so many lives”.

“Sam was one of those people you never forget. The kind of person who could light up a room without even trying.”

BBC/Studio Lambert

In the weeks after his death, more than £28,000 was raised to help those affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), which Sam had been diagnosed with.

His adoptive mum Jo, who travelled with him through South America in the 2020 series, will show support for the runners as they take part in the popular 10km race in Manchester.

The group of 11 show contestants will be raising money for The Christie Charity – supporting those affected by cancer.

They include Trish and Cathie from series three, Stephen and Viv from the fourth series and first series runner-up Darron Speck.

In a social media post, Emon said: “Cancer is something that has touched every member of this group in one way or another and we know how important hope, support and care can be for families going through the hardest times imaginable.”

He added: “What started as an idea between friends has turned into something truly meaningful.”

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Race Across the World