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Adventurers are being sought for one of Northern Ireland's toughest fundraising challenges, as Action Cancer's Seven Peaks Challenge returns to the Mourne Mountains in September. Participants will take on all seven of the range's highest summits in a single trek lasting between 10 and 15 hours, raising funds for the charity's cancer prevention, detection and support services.
The seven peaks to be summited on Saturday 12 September 2026 are Slieve Binnian, Slieve Meelbeg, Slieve Meelmore, Slieve Bearnagh, Slieve Commedagh, Slieve Donard and Slieve Lamagan. Action Cancer's Treks and Activities Executive, Kelsey O'Donnell, said the charity was pleased to bring the event back for a seventh year. She said: "We're delighted to be bringing back the Seven Peaks Challenge for a seventh year. Last year's participants raised an incredible £39,000, helping to fund Action Cancer's life-saving cancer prevention, detection and support services across Northern Ireland."
O'Donnell added that the charity was now looking for more local adventurers to join Team Action Cancer, and said every participant and every sponsorship donation would make a difference. She said: "Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply looking for a new challenge, we'll support you every step of the way. Our expert mountain guides will lead the challenge, ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. Participants should be in good health and undertake appropriate training before taking part."
Among those already signed up is Gary McCullough from Lurgan, who is returning for his second Seven Peaks Challenge after being inspired by his grandfather's cancer journey. He said: "Losing my grandfather to cancer had a huge impact on me and my family. Watching what he went through made me want to do something positive in his memory. Taking on the Seven Peaks Challenge for the second time is my way of honouring him and helping Action Cancer continue the vital work they do for people across Northern Ireland. If my efforts can help even one family get the support they need, then every step is worth it."
Also taking part is Joanne Reynolds, advanced skincare specialist and owner of Milk & Honey on Belfast's Lisburn Road, who recently became an official partner of Action Cancer. She said: "Partnering with Action Cancer felt like a very natural fit. As an advanced skincare clinic based just around the corner from Action Cancer House, we've always been aware of the incredible support the charity provides within our local community. Through my work, I meet people every week whose lives have been touched by cancer, so supporting the charity feels very personal. Taking on the Seven Peaks Challenge is another way for me to give back. I love a new challenge, and this one certainly fits the bill. It will definitely push me outside my comfort zone but knowing that every step helps raise vital funds for Action Cancer makes all the training worthwhile. I'm looking forward to meeting others taking part and sharing the experience."
Action Cancer is the only charity in Northern Ireland providing free breast screening to well women aged 40 to 49 and over 70, outside the NHS screening age range, where six breast cancers are detected for every 1,000 women screened. Every £300 raised through sponsorship will help ensure local people can continue to access the charity's services.
Registration for the Seven Peaks Challenge costs £60, and participants are asked to raise a minimum of £300 in sponsorship. Places are limited, and final registrations close on Thursday 10 September 2026. To register, visit www.actioncancer.org, email kodonnell@actioncancer.org, or call 028 9080 3344 (option 2).
