Clare Balding: What disappointment has stayed with you longest? — FLAPSS

The question

What disappointment has stayed with you longest?

Originally asked

The Guardian, to a different person each week, The Q&A

This exact question recurs in The Guardian's institutional Q&A pool.

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CB

Clare Balding

English broadcaster, journalist, TV presenter and author

Recorded said elsewhere, not written here

My A-level grades – but I got over it.

The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 15 January 2011 source ↗

Others on this question

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Suzi Quatro American-British rock musician

Not being able to have more kids.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 19 November 2016 source ↗

Bryan Ferry British singer

Not receiving a dukedom.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 23 October 2010 source ↗

Perez Hilton American blogger

That I spent so many years being overweight and out of shape.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 23 January 2010 source ↗

Forest Green Rovers, my football team, getting relegated.

Recorded The Q&A, The Guardian, 6 December 2025 source ↗

More from Clare Balding

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Question Who alive today do you admire most, and what draws you to them? Values & belief

AP McCoy, the 15 times champion jump jockey. I am constantly in awe of his dedication to his sport.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 15 January 2011 source ↗

Question What period or moment in your life brought you the most joy? Time & hindsight

This may sound nauseating, but I am a very happy person. I love my work, I love my life and I'm told by those who know/love me that it's a bit like living with Tigger. Bloody annoying, I should think.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 15 January 2011 source ↗

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