Name: Sarah Ball

Status: Alive!​​​​​

Age: 52

Job: Client Strategy Director at Balls2 Marketing

About me:  For the last 6 years, I have been running PR and marketing glazing specialists Balls2 Marketing with my husband Andy Ball. We both have years of experience in the glazing industry. We have clients that cover the entire supply chain in windows and doors. I’m probably best known for talking about social media – and being the organiser of PIGS (People in Glazing Society).
I’m the secretary of the CAPSIG, the construction and property social interest group for the Chartered Institute of Public Relations.
I live in Derby which is great for pub culture and we have a fantastic cinema and art gallery called QUAD.
I am a mother of four daughters, and nana to two gorgeous grandboys. I love spending time with my big extended family and we regularly go on holiday together, all 4 generations of us!

Cycling/Canoeing experience:  Canoeing – I have a certificate for dinghy sailing level 1-2 but I’ve never been in a canoe before.  Cycling – I love cycling, but don’t do enough of it (yet!)

Motivation:   Last year I completed the Inca Trail for MacMillan Cancer Support with my daughter Stephanie. It was an amazing experience and I made some friends for life. I wanted my next challenge to be within the glazing industry – and I’ve watched the great work and spectacular rides of GM Fundraising with admiration. So when I was asked if I’d like to take part, I jumped at the chance.

Fears:  I’m not really afraid of much. I’ve abseiled before and that got me sorted with my fear of heights. I get claustrophobia, so I’m happy that we are not caving in the challenge.

Expectations:  I’m looking forward to the training. It’s great to be working towards a goal and the more training hours put in, the more enjoyment you get doing it. With any physical challenge, it’s about how you cope when you hit the wall. I think we’ll all be OK as the group of women doing the Paddle2Pedal are really lovely and I’m sure we will encourage each other to keep going!

One critical item you’ll be taking with you: My iPhone charger!