Dundalk native takes on epic BBC adventure with daughter

Andrew Clifford, originally from Dundalk, is taking part in the new season of the hit BBC series Race Across the World alongside his daughter Molly, as the pair embark on the adventure of a lifetime across continents, cultures and challenges.

Andrew (54) now lives in Derry and works as a Geography teacher at St. Patrick’s College in Maghera. He is joined on the show by his daughter Molly (23), a junior doctor on the cusp of beginning her medical career. 

The BBC series sees contestants race across vast distances without the use of air travel, relying instead on their resourcefulness, budgeting skills and the kindness of strangers. It has become a firm favourite with viewers for its mix of human stories, stunning scenery and unpredictable twists.

As she explained ahead of the series, the journey is an opportunity to show her father that she is more capable than he might think.

The pair’s involvement in the show began, as many great adventures do, almost by accident.

“We keep calling it a joke gone too far,” Molly said. “We were sitting watching it on TV one night, and the option to apply came up and every time we watch it, we always say that we would love to do it. The next day, the ad popped up on daddy’s Facebook, and so we put an application in thinking nothing of it, and it’s kind of just been a whirlwind since then.”

For Andrew, the experience represents the fulfilment of a long-held dream.

Read Next: Dundalk Gardaí seize cocaine and cash during vehicle stop

“I am living a dream here. This is what I've always wanted to do but never had the willingness to do it, nor the money or the circumstances, but I’ve always wanted to go backpacking. 

“I have a wife who would very much not want to do it - it would be her ultimate nightmare to have a backpack on going around places. But I’ve always wanted to do it and so to do it with my daughter, I am absolutely delighted.”

The programme will air on BBC One and iPlayer at 8pm.