Women & Girls Pathway Manager, Steve Magoffin is the latest big name to confirm their participation in the Three Peaks Challenge, which takes place in October of this year.
The 39-year-old retired in 2018 after a 14-year playing career that saw him represent Sussex, Worcestershire, Surrey, Western Australia and Queensland. He now works as an academy coach at New Road, and is looking forward to giving something back to the game that has given him so much.
The challenge will see some of cricket’s most famous faces joining fans and spectators alike as they attempt to summit Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in the space of three days.
All money raised will be split between two very worthy causes in the Professional Cricketers’ Trust and the Tom Maynard Trust.
The former provides support to current and ex-players when they need it most, whether that is by way of funding for medical assistance, provision of specialist equipment or through emotional care. The latter helps young sportspeople by educating them about the potential pitfalls of a career in professional sport, as well as providing assistance with overseas placements and equipment.
The Professional Cricketers’ Association recently spoke to Magoffin about his motivations for taking on the Three Peaks, and why he’s looking forward to the trip.
Q: Why are you doing the Three Peaks challenge?
A: The Three Peaks is something that I feel I need to do to help support the great work that the Professional Cricketers’ Trust does for players of all ages. The Trust not only helps players when they are on the field and in training, but also after retirement.
Q: What inspired you to take on the challenge?
A: Retirement wasn’t an easy experience for me, and the PCA have always been there to help me when I needed it. As a result, I feel I need to do the best I can to help the PCA and the Trust.
The Tom Maynard Trust is also something that I am also really honoured to support. The charity has given so many great opportunities to a lot of young cricketers and sportspeople around the United Kingdom.
Q: What is your fundraising target?
A: I’d like to raise as much as I can for both organisations. £750 would be a good starting point.
Q: Who are you most looking forward to joining / who would you like to room with?
A: I’m unsure at the moment – I’ll have a look when I see the rooming list a couple of weeks before the challenge!
Q: What food and drink will you be taking on board?
A: Lots of water, a couple of cans of coke and whatever snacks we might pick up on the way! Chocolate is always good, and definitely Pringles!
Q: Which peak are you most looking forward to climbing?
A: Ben Nevis and Snowdon are the peaks that I’m most looking forward to, since there’s a strong Scottish and Welsh connection within our families.
Q: Have you got any post-Three Peaks celebrations planned?
A: Once we finish the challenge, I’m just looking forward to enjoying the moment with those that have also been through the same experience. I have no doubt that it will be very difficult, but we will stay together, share some good stories and make some memories!
Places are still available to take on the Three Peaks Challenge with both charities urging players, sponsors and supporters to sign up.
For more details on the walk click here or email Sam Relf on sam.relf@thepca.co.uk
