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

The question

What disappointment has stayed with you longest?

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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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Vince Cable British politician

The failure of my party to make the big political breakthrough it deserves.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 25 April 2009 source ↗

Paul McKenna British hypnotist and TV personality

People mistaking my kindness for weakness and stealing from me.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 7 January 2023 source ↗

Guy Pearce Australian actor

I felt like I messed up my marriage. I don’t feel that way any more, but at the time I was devastated.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 18 January 2025 source ↗

Zoë Wanamaker American-born British actress

That we've chosen to trash the planet.

Recorded The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 23 March 2013 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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