We entered Race Across the World to honour dying wish

Margo Oakley, now 59, and Mark Blythen, 67, became the first in-laws to compete in Race Across the World — the BBC show offering a £20,000 reward to the first of five duos to reach the finish line without phones, internet, or air travel. Their decision to take on the challenge came after the passing of Mark’s wife and Margo’s sister, Julia, who died from myelofibrosis, a rare blood cancer, in 2022.

The First Encounter

Margo and Mark’s initial impressions of each other were far from favorable. Margo’s first meeting with Mark’s girlfriend’s younger sibling left her unimpressed, describing the man as “po-faced” and “judgey.” Mark shared similar thoughts, finding the woman’s “loud and wild” personality off-putting. Yet, more than 40 years later, the pair found themselves united as competitors.

“She hit him over the head with a brolly and then about three weeks later I went out with her,” Mark recalled, reflecting on how he and Julia first met. “It took us 23 years to get married, but as soon as I met her, she was the person I knew I wanted to be with.”

Their relationship, marked by occasional clashes, was held together by Julia’s presence. “She was the glue that kept us connected,” Margo noted. Despite their differences, she emphasized Mark’s unwavering dedication to her sister. “He was a good husband, very devoted to her. He couldn’t have been more,” she said.

A New Dynamic

Julia’s illness in 2019 reshaped their bond. As Mark cared for his wife, Margo’s visits brought much-needed joy to Julia’s days. “When he was supporting Julia, he didn’t realize how much it was draining him,” Margo explained. She added that their roles were distinct but complementary, with Julia’s legacy driving their connection.

“I think that’s what kept Julia going for so long — Margo would come down and raise her spirits,” Mark said. “Caring for someone can make you lose sight of the fun they need.”

The inspiration to join the race struck Margo unexpectedly. “I saw the race advertised and it just spoke to me,” she said. “I was looking for adventure because I care for my mum in Liverpool. A voice told me to ask Mark.” The pair’s mutual agreement was swift, with Mark immediately saying “yes.”

The Journey to Mongolia

Their adventure to Mongolia — the race’s final destination — was filled with both triumphs and trials. “It was Julia’s last wishes that made us keep the friendship alive,” Margo stated. While they hadn’t planned every detail, their bond was clear. “You don’t really have a blueprint for it,” she admitted. “It’s an unusual relationship for all those years of friction.”

Despite the emotional weight of the journey, Margo described it as “magical,” with moments of profound connection. “Even the lows had their own kind of magic,” she added, highlighting the transformative experience of their shared challenge.