In a heart-pounding finale, mother-and-son duo Caroline and Tom were crowned winners of Race Across the World season five, conquering a 14,100km journey from the Great Wall of China to Kanniyakumari, India. The BBC One series, which aired its climactic episode on June 11, saw the pair outpace three other teams to claim the £20,000 prize after 51 days of grueling travel across China, Nepal, and India. Their victory, marked by tears and triumph at Vattakottai Fort, has captivated fans and sparked emotional celebrations.
The finale began with Caroline, a 60-year-old housewife, and her 21-year-old son Tom holding a seven-hour lead over sisters Elizabeth and Letitia, with couple Fin and Sioned trailing by 7 hours 48 minutes, and brothers Melvyn and Brian 17 hours behind after a risky detour around Mumbai. The race tightened as teams burned their budgets on taxis and fishing boats, sprinting to the final checkpoint. Caroline and Tom secured first place by a mere 19 minutes, with Elizabeth and Letitia in second, Fin and Sioned third, and Melvyn and Brian fourth. “I’m lost for words,” Tom said, praising his mother’s resilience, while Caroline, overcome with emotion, declared, “We must never doubt ourselves ever again.”
The season, which began on April 23, followed four teams navigating Asia’s diverse landscapes without smartphones, internet, or bank cards, relying on a cash budget equivalent to an airfare. From cultural immersion—like Fin’s humorous take on “fake” Chinese food—to raw moments of bonding, such as Melvyn and Brian’s laughter in a dilapidated hostel, the show delivered wholesome drama. Fans on social media praised Melvyn and Brian’s joyful journey, with some calling them the “real winners” for their infectious spirit, while others celebrated Caroline and Tom’s determination.
The series, a BAFTA-winning hit since 2019, continues to charm with its authentic portrayal of human connections and travel’s transformative power. A reunion special, airing June 18 at 9 PM on BBC One, will see the teams reflect on their adventure, sharing behind-the-scenes insights. All eight episodes are available on BBC iPlayer, perfect for binging this epic tale of grit and glory. Congratulations to Caroline and Tom—proof that teamwork and heart can conquer any distance!
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