Steve Prescott’s youngest son Koby says it is ''written in the stars'' after signing up to climb Everest this year in memory of his dad.
The 15-year-old will join mum Linzi Prescott in October for the latest incredible Steve Prescott Foundation fundraiser, in honour of his rugby league legend father who died in 2013.
“I am honoured to have the chance to climb to Everest Base Camp for my dad’s charity and follow in his footsteps,” said Koby, who is embarking on his own rugby career with Blackbrook.
“Growing up seeing my dad’s achievements I told him that one day I would do challenges with him to support the charity. He was taken from us but like my brother Taylor I am more determined than ever to continue his legacy, and to make him proud.”
St Helens and Hull FC great Prescott died nine years ago, when Koby was only 7. The Foundation Steve set up while terminally ill has gone on to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds each year to support The Christie Charitable Fund and the Rugby Football League Benevolent Fund.
This will by the third attempt on Everest by the SPF who achieved the climb in 2016 and 2018 led by Linzi and eldest son Taylor, and there are places available for the public to join the trip of a lifetime.
“I don’t think Stephen would believe that I am going up for a third time,” said Linzi.
“Koby wanted to follow Taylor in 2018 but he was too young. He has been champing at the bit and I am extremely proud of both of them.
“It is vital we continue Stephen’s legacy as the charity makes such a difference to so many, not only our beneficiaries The Christie and RFL Benevolent Fund, but in the way it has encouraged people to improve their health and wellbeing with events like the GPW Recruitment St Helens 10k and the Bespoke Funding SPF 1000 Mile Walk”.
Bespoke Funding Solutions Ltd will support Koby’s epic attempt, with their director Paul Marsh adding: “I have known the family for a long time and Steve would be absolutely elated to see how Linzi, Taylor and now Koby have continued his legacy to support those less fortunate.
“There is no other family I would like to carry our flag to the top of the world.”
The challenge has been organised by David Cooke from Accelerate Coaching with fantastic support from Conquer Hiking & Trekking who have generously agreed to offer free places for anyone tackling the challenge on their UK treks as part of training for Everest.
Subject to covid restrictions the trip will depart from Manchester on October 13, returning on the 29th.
For further information on how you can support or join the challenge,