Joel Dommett showed his support for Billy Monger and his charity triathlon on Friday as he met him at Brands Hatch Circuit in Kent.
The comedian, 35, sported a white tee and red plaid shirt to honour the colour of Billy’s Big Red Nose Day Challenge.
The 21-year-old, who lost both of his legs in a racing accident three years ago, has been braving the elements to complete the endurance adventure, which comprised of walking, cycling and kayaking over 140 miles.
Accomplishment: Joel Dommett showed his support for Billy Monger and his charity triathlon on Friday as he met him at Brands Hatch Circuit in Kent
He started the challenge on Monday in Gateshead, taking a rest day on Tuesday due to extreme weather conditions before resuming the triathlon to finish at the racing track on Friday.
The money raised from Billy’s accomplishment will go to a number of different causes, including helping those affected by domestic abuse, tackling the stigma around mental health in addition to helping those in crisis amid the coronavirus pandemic.
His inspiring challenge is also being made into an hour-long BBC One documentary.
Fellow TV presenter Vick Hope, greeted Billy as he reached the stage three finish line yesterday at Blenheim Palace.
Charitable cause: The comedian, 35, sported a white tee and red plaid shirt to honour the colour of Billy’s Big Red Nose Day Challenge
Wow! The 21-year-old, who lost both of his legs in a racing accident three years ago, has been braving the elements to complete the endurance adventure, which comprised of walking, cycling and kayaking over 140 miles
She praised the young athlete: ‘I first met Billy when we were judges on Young Sports Personality of the Year. He was blown away by all the incredible young people and I sat there thinking “you’re the incredible one, Billy”.
‘I am in awe of what he’s achieved. If it was me standing on the starting line I would find it completely overwhelming but nothing seems to faze him.
‘I know it’s been said so many times before but he really is an inspiration to so many little boys and girls. He is a fantastic role model for people to look up to.
‘I heard Dan Walker went out to support Billy with a megaphone so I’ve gone one better and busted out some cow bells…. one small problem, I have no idea what to do with them!
Mission: The money raised for Billy’s triathlon will go to a number of different causes, including helping those affected by domestic abuse and tackling the stigma around mental health
Thumbs up: The amputee’s inspiring challenge is also being made into an hour-long BBC One documentary
‘This year it feels more important than ever to raise as much money as possible for Comic Relief and a fitting end to Billy’s Big Challenge.’
Billy said before embarking on the experience: ‘It still feels so surreal that I’m doing this for Red Nose Day – that I’m doing 140 miles, in disciplines that I haven’t got any experience in at all.
‘I haven’t cycled since my accident, three years ago and I’ve never kayaked in my life, so I’m going to have to get the hang of the gear pretty quickly, especially to cover the distances that we’re doing. So, it’s nerve wracking but it’s exciting.
‘I never thought I’d be doing a Red Nose Day challenge of my own. I remember watching people like David Walliams and John Bishop when I was younger and never ever would I have imagined myself in their shoes.’
Ambitious: Billy said before embarking on the experience: ‘It still feels so surreal that I’m doing this for Red Nose Day – that I’m doing 140 miles, in disciplines that I haven’t got any experience in at all’
He continued: ‘But the reason I said yes is because I really hope we can raise lots of money for people that need support.
‘It’s such a difficult time right now for everyone and I’m really proud to be able to do something to help.’
Kate Phillips, Acting Controller at BBC One added: ‘We can’t thank brilliant Billy enough for taking on this daunting challenge for Comic Relief.
‘It really is a triathlon like no other and we know his heroic efforts will help so many during such difficult times.’
Support: Joel playfully lifted a red scarf over his face with the words: ‘Billy’s Big Red Nose Day Challenge,’ printed across
Joking around: The comedian rested his circular shades around his neck as he captured an awkward yet amusing selfie