Carrie Bickmore reached her emotional and physical limit during the Big 5 Marathon in South Africa, breaking down in tears after crossing the finish line. The 44-year-old television host revealed she nearly quit mid-race due to sickness, nerves and overwhelming self-doubt.
According to Woman’s Day Australia, Bickmore pushed through despite her body “falling apart” just three days before the marathon. The race was part of her fundraising campaign for the Beanies 4 Brain Cancer foundation, which has raised nearly $25 million since its launch a decade ago.
In a raw Instagram video, Bickmore cried as she described the race as horrible and admitted she was angry at herself for struggling so much. She said she felt completely overwhelmed when she finished but knew quitting wasn’t an option.
Sickness and anxiety hit hard before the race
Bickmore, who has been solo parenting her three children since her split from Chris Walker, revealed she felt crushed by anxiety in the days leading up to the race. Already under stress from juggling parenthood and fundraising, she came down with an illness that left her body drained.
Despite feeling physically and mentally unprepared, she continued. Her longtime friend and radio co-host Tommy Little supported her throughout the marathon, and together with their team, they raised more than $1.1 million for brain cancer research.
An insider told Woman’s Day that Bickmore takes on the emotional weight of those she helps. Having lost her first husband Greg Lange to brain cancer in 2010, the mission is deeply personal. But that empathy, the source added, also leaves her vulnerable to burnout.
Pushed to the edge, but still standing
Carrie’s confession that she almost quit resonated with many. She described herself as a non-athlete with terrible hips and little training, but she still crossed the finish line. She reminded others that the journey matters more than the time it takes to get there.
The marathon marked a decade since Bickmore wore a blue beanie onstage at the Logies, dedicating her Gold Logie win to Lange and using the moment to launch Beanies 4 Brain Cancer. What began as a personal tribute has evolved into one of Australia’s most impactful cancer charities.
A teammate praised her determination, saying her strength, heart and vision continue to inspire. Another source close to Bickmore said the race gave her a powerful sense of achievement, proving she can overcome challenges even when she feels broken inside.
But behind her brave face, insiders worry that Carrie may be carrying more than she can handle.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.