Peak District Challenge 2026 honours Kent Rhodes’ legacy

Fundraising in memory of respected ActionCOACH franchisee surpasses £100,000

The ActionCOACH community raised more than £100,000 for charity following the latest Kent Rhodes Challenge, which saw participants take on the spectacular landscapes of the Peak District over the first weekend in June.

Held in memory of much-loved and respected ActionCOACH franchise partner Kent Rhodes, who passed away following a courageous battle with cancer in 2018, the annual event, now in its eighth year, brought together franchise partners, clients, team members, family and friends from across the UK.

This year’s challenge was organised by franchise partner Phil Chantry and attended by close to 40 participants, including Marc Eccles, who was inspired to join ActionCOACH through Kent’s coaching.

The team completed routes of varying distances through some of the Peak District’s most iconic scenery, raising money for Children with Cancer UK and the Young Entrepreneur Smart Start (YESS) Foundation.

Denise Pitot, CEO of the YESS Foundation, also played a leading role in organising this year’s event, helping coordinate the challenge and fundraising efforts to ensure Kent’s legacy remains front and centre.

“As tough as the challenge was, we always knew it was only for 12 hours, said Denise. “Many young people don’t have that certainty when they’re facing difficulties in their lives. The money raised will help us continue giving young people the support, skills and encouragement they need.”

This year’s event took the overall fundraising total beyond the £100,000 mark, a remarkable achievement for an initiative inspired by one man’s determination to help others.

“The money raised will help us continue giving young people the support, skills and encouragement they need.”

Kent was known through the ActionCOACH network for his abundant spirit, positivity and unwavering commitment to supporting those around him. Following his passing, the annual fundraiser was established to celebrate those qualities while supporting causes dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people.

For Ian Christelow, co-founder of ActionCOACH UK, “Kent had an incredible ability to bring out the best in people. He challenged us to think bigger, do more and contribute wherever we could. To see so many people continuing to come together in his memory, whilst raising more than £100,000 for important causes, is something I know he would have been immensely proud of.”

Alongside supporting Children with Cancer UK, proceeds from this year’s event will enable the YESS Foundation to expand its work providing free life and business skills education to young people aged 12 to 22.

“The funds donated will help us continue delivering life-changing education and personal development opportunities for young people across the UK,” added Denise. “Every programme we run is designed to build confidence, resilience and leadership skills, helping young people realise what they’re capable of achieving.

“This year we’ve raised over £10,000! We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, donated or supported the event. Their efforts will create opportunities for young people long into the future.”

What began as a tribute to a respected colleague has evolved into a powerful annual fundraising effort, bringing people together around a shared commitment to helping others and assuring Kent’s influence for years to come.

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