Wok Racing: Ross Anthony interview

Wok the hell?

In the week leading up to the Wok Racing World Championships, I really wanted to find out more about the crazy cats that rip up the rule book, throw caution to the wind and ride the wok. As luck would have it, I managed to get in touch with Ross Anthony, a British born German TV celeb and part of the UK team that’s racing this weekend. When I found out this guy had won the German version of ‘I’m a Celebrity…’ I got excited, when I found out that the other members of the UK team are none other than 80’s popsters ‘Right Said Fred’, I nearly went ballistic. All together now ‘I’m too sexy for my wok…’

Adrian Simpson: How did you become involved in the sport?

Ross Anthony: I'm an English Celebrity in Germany and the Wok Wm has always been a Celebrity event…. and this year each country is represented by it's own team and of course I will be waving the Victory flag for England a long with Right said Fred !?

AS: What was your first time like?

RA: it's very nerve-racking and absolutely terrifying … this is not an event which you can start slowly and build up to … You are thrown in straight at the deep end.?

AS: How dangerous is it?

RA: As long as you follow the strict rules and regulations, then you should be o.k. but anything can happen…. do you want to see my scars.. hee hee

AS: What kind of speeds do you reach?

RA: I wouldn't know as I always have my eyes closed but I'm sure it's extremely fast.?

AS: Do you think wok racing can spread further than Germany?

RA: It's a great fun sport which is extremely competitive for the spectator and viewer…. It would work anywhere as you don't need any talent or ability; you just need nerve and a hard bottom…

AS: What is it about the German people that have allowed wok racing to flourish?

RA: The German public loves seeing the celebrity’s beg for mercy and suffer

AS: Do you fancy the idea of racing any other household items?

RA: Well I have already ridden a table down a snowy mountain, so I'm basically up for anything that's exciting, daring and new.

AS: Does it frustrate you that you're not recognised for this sport back home?

RA: To be honest I'm not recognized for this sport in Germany as I have other hidden talents but it would be exhilarating to do it back home.?

AS: What is the future for wok racing?

RA: It's in its 10th year and going from strength to strength, so obviously it's looking bright…. The creator Stefan Raab always thinks of something new to make this event more appealing to a larger audience and it works.

AS: Do wok racers get the girls?

RA: I wouldn't know …. because I'm married

Tags: Germany, Ross Antony, Stefan Raab, Wok Racing World Championships

About the Author

Adrian Simpson Adrian Simpson is a writer and TV presenter with a profound love of the outdoors. His family, snow, sea, brewing, vinyl, guitars and VW buses mean the world to him.