Leigh Leopards Owner Derek Beaumont Joins MizMal 2025 Charity Ride in Support of Candlelighters
Leigh Leopards owner Derek Beaumont is no stranger to taking on gruelling personal challenges in the name of charity — but his next adventure might be the most ambitious yet.
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.
Derek’s Motivation
This ride carries extra meaning for Derek Beaumont, who learned just this past Sunday during the club’s trip to Wakefield that Daryll 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 Daryll’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:
Join Us on the Journey
Be part of something special. Support the MizMal 2025 ride, stand with Team Clark, and help Candlelighters continue their incredible work.
🟡 Donate Donate now (click here)
🎯 Target: £20,000
📅 Challenge Dates: 23rd–28th June 2025
🚴♂️ Route: 600 miles, 30,000 feet of climbing, 6 days
Let’s turn this challenge into a life-changing experience for children and families in need.
