DMPRFC member, junior team sponsor and ex-player Steve Graham is about to embark on the next stage of his epic 7 Summits Challenge, aiming to reach the top of the highest mountain on all 7 continents.

Steve is a 44yr old experienced high altitude mountaineer, climber and long distance runner. He has been taking on physical challenges for more than 30 years, raising thousands of pounds for numerous charities whilst self-funding all his previous exploits. His ultimate aim is to summit the highest mountains on all seven continents ‘The Seven Summits’ whilst raising awareness and funds for charities across Britain and afar. While living at lower altitudes and not climbing mountains or running through deserts, Steve is a Darlington based self-employed plumber & heating engineer. Starting his adventures at an early age in the English Lake District and Scotland, he discovered a greater taste for mountaineering and adventure activities when participating and guiding expeditions in the early 90’s as a Royal Air Force Physical Training Instructor.

Thus far, Steve has achieved multiple ascents of high mountains in South America, North America, Europe and Africa. As well as completing numerous marathons across the globe, in 2016 he completed the 250km Marathon des Sables in the Sahara desert dubbed ‘the toughest footrace on earth’ by Discovery Channel.

Among numerous expeditions, Steve has now reached the top of South America (Mount Aconcagua - 6962m/22841ft, Argentina (world’s highest peak outside Asia)), Africa (Mt Kilimanjaro 5895m/19340ft Tanzania), North America (Mt McKinley/Denali 6190m/20310ft, Alaska), Europe (Mt Elbrus 5642m/18510ft, Russia) and numerous peaks in the European Alps such as Mt Blanc 4810m/15774ft, as well as enduring many days climbing in the mountains of England, Scotland and Wales.

On many expeditions, often battling against strong winds, whiteouts, avalanches and frostbite, Steve has developed a powerful passion and the motivation, stamina and mental endurance to stay focused and alert of the risks associated with high altitude mountaineering while enjoying the whole experience and adventure.

As a high altitude climber with developed skills on rock and ice ascents, glacier travelling, a powerful drive for adventure and a healthy and sporty lifestyle, he is ready to reach the Top of the World.

For his Everest Expedition (5th Stage) he will be raising money for Prostate Cancer UK and St Teresa’s Hospice (Darlington).

The cost of his challenge is self-funded, so every penny donated will go direct to Prostate Cancer UK and St Teresa’s Hospice. All donations will be greatly appreciated and will make a huge difference.

For more information on Steve’s challenge please visit: www.7summitsteve.com or http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/7summitsteve

Steve says “Preparing for the Everest expedition is a serious business regarding physical and mental conditioning. Training is performed year round, and I have devoted long hours improving aerobic capacity, strength and stamina. I’m really looking forward to this next stage of my challenge and raising charitable awareness with the help of DMPRFC is a bonus that myself and my charities are extremely grateful. Quitting is not in my nature. I will not give up on the mountains, nor will I give up in my quest to get to the top of them”.

To find out more about both of Steve's worthy charities, click the links below:

St Theresa's Hospice - Prostate Cancer UK