This June, Derek will once again join a team of riders tackling the MizMal Challenge — a physically and mentally demanding 600-mile cycling journey from Mizen Head in the south to Malin Head in the north of Ireland, following the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way.

Over six days, the team will climb an eye-watering 30,000 feet — all to raise money for Candlelighters, a children’s cancer charity supporting families across Yorkshire.

We’ve all seen Derek push himself to the limit before — from soloing the Bolton Half Ironman to completing the NC500, a 500-mile cycle across Scotland in five days, alongside fellow riders Miles Dewhurst, Gary Molloy, and Andy Mair.

That challenge also raised funds for Candlelighters — and now, they’re going even further.

Derek will be flying out from the team’s base in Catalans this Sunday to join the group in Ireland the night before the ride starts. The route takes the team from Mizen Head in the south to Malin Head in the north, covering 600 miles and climbing 30,000 feet over six consecutive days.

This ride carries extra meaning for Mr Beaumont, who learned just this past Sunday during the club’s trip to Wakefield that Daryl Powell’s grandson had been diagnosed with Leukaemia.

Derek has been deeply moved by the strength of the Powell family and the incredible support they have received from Candlelighters.

This personal connection will serve as a powerful source of motivation for Derek throughout the gruelling six-day challenge, and he is calling on the wider rugby league family to rally behind Candlelighters and help raise vital funds.

“Candlelighters were there when Daryl’s family needed them,” said Derek.

“Their work is incredible, and I’m proud to take on this challenge to help them continue making a difference at the toughest of times.”

Meet the 2025 Riding Team

Miles Dewhurst – Owner and CEO, Yorkshire Spa Retreat

Ed Dewhurst – Miles’ son, taking on this challenge to support the cause

Gary Molloy – CEO, Leisure Resorts (a long-standing Leigh Leopards partner)

James Gourlay – Managing Director, Leisure Park Solutions

Andy Mair – Passionate supporter of Candlelighters

Derek Beaumont – Owner, AB Sundecks Ltd and Leigh Leopards Super League Club

Support Crew:

Josh Preston

Tom Knox

Charity Mission & Fundraising Goal

This challenge is not about personal glory — it’s about making a real difference for children with cancer and their families.

The team is aiming to raise £20,000 for Candlelighters, and every penny will go directly to supporting their vital work, which includes:

Emotional and psychological support

Financial grants for families

Help for siblings

Bereavement services

Creating moments of joy during the toughest times

Why Support This Challenge?

Your donation will provide essential relief and support to families navigating the hardest moments of their lives. Candlelighters are there every step of the way — and this ride helps ensure they always can be.

As a thank you, every donor will be entered into a prize draw to win a two-night stay at a park of your choice, courtesy of the team’s generous partners.

Proudly Supported By: Leisure Resorts, Yorkshire Spa Retreat, Leisure Park Solutions and AB Sundecks.