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Recently retired Brownlee set for school challenge

Andrew BartonYorkshire
PA Media Athlete Jonny Brownlee stands with folded arms in a Great Britain triathlon vest in front of a sponsor backdrop at a sporting event.PA Media
Jonny Brownlee says he "can't say no" to the offer of helping a school's BBC Children in Need running challenge

Recently retired Olympic gold medallist Jonny Brownlee is to dig out his running shoes after being challenged by schoolchildren to help them run 500 miles for BBC Children in Need.

Pupils at Wakefield's Outwood Primary Academy Lofthouse Gate asked the six-time triathlon world champion to join their fundraising efforts as part of Run For Pudsey, a nationwide BBC Children in Need initiative.

Children recorded a video message inviting Brownlee to their school during BBC Children in Need week and challenged him to help pupils reach the collective goal in four hours.

BBC Radio Leeds is set to broadcast live from the school's playground during the event on 10 November.

Brownlee accepted the challenge during a live interview with the station.

"I'm quite emotional after listening to that," the 36-year-old said.

"They show so much passion, so I can't say no. They're quite cheeky as well, so I've got to be there.

"It's an absolutely brilliant cause. But one condition - no primary school children are allowed to beat me. I might be retired, but I'm still quite competitive."

Recently retired Jonny Brownlee set for school challenge

The fundraising challenge will see every child at the school, aged between four and 11, take part and seek sponsorship to raise money for projects supported by BBC Children in Need.

Brownlee, who announced his retirement in September, won Olympic bronze at London 2012, silver at Rio 2016 and gold in the mixed relay at Tokyo 2020.

Brother Alistair, a double Olympic champion, retired at the age of 36 in 2024.

BBC/Tracy Gee Four pupils from Outwood Primary Academy Lofthouse Gate stand on a school field holding BBC Radio Leeds inflatable clappers and wearing Pudsey-themed headbands.BBC/Tracy Gee
Pupils at Outwood Primary Academy Lofthouse Gate challenged Brownlee

Connor Phillips, vice principal at Outwood Primary Academy Lofthouse Gate, said the school community was "buzzing with excitement".

"Run For Pudsey isn't just about raising vital funds for Children in Need, it's about inspiring all children to lead active, healthy lives," he said.

"Having Jonny Brownlee join us on the day will be an unforgettable experience for the pupils."

Brownlee said he was keen to support the campaign because it reflected the aims of the Brownlee Foundation, which encourages children from all backgrounds to take part in sport and lead active lifestyles.

Run For Pudsey has been designed to encourage schools across the UK to take on physical challenges while raising money for BBC Children in Need.

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.

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