Arachas, Ireland’s largest insurance broker, is proud to sponsor the 26 Mountains 2 Mayo Challenge, where over 20 business leaders from across Ireland, the UK, and the USA will push their limits—physically and mentally—to support Cancer Fund for Children. From June 7th to 15th, these determined individuals will take on the ultimate test of endurance, scaling the highest peak in every county across Ireland, covering nearly 11,000 meters of elevation—1.25 times the height of Everest—all to raise an incredible €1,000,000 for children and families impacted by cancer.
Arachas, part of the Ardonagh Group, has again committed to supporting the Cancer Fund for Children initiative for the challenge. As in 2023 when Arachas’s employees took part in the walk across Ireland, passing many of the offices, this year an Arachas relay team, made up of employees from each of Arachas’s 14 offices, will tackle this unique challenge.
Joey Wynne, CEO of Arachas, said: "We are incredibly proud to support the 26 Mountains 2 Mayo challenge and stand alongside these inspiring business leaders in aid of Cancer Fund for Children. Cancer Fund for Children is very close to the hearts of our people in Arachas. The two previous “Miles to Mayo” challenges in 2021 and 2023 which raised €2 million and helped inspire this challenge hold special memories for us. Being part of that community force has built a unique bond with Cancer Fund for Children and a huge appreciation for what they do and the many people they help. Backing the 26-Mountain Challenge allows us to pull together again, putting into action our values of resilience, teamwork, and commitment. Our team is ready to take on this demanding journey, knowing that every step forward will help provide vital support for children and families facing the toughest battles of their lives. Together, we can help Cancer Fund for Children continue their life-changing work across the island."
Roger Johnston, CEO of Axial3D & Challenge Organiser, added: "In 2023, I had the privilege of walking a leg of Rory Best's 'Miles to Mayo' challenge, where he walked over 330km to raise money for Cancer Fund for Children. I was struck by the power of community, determination, and generosity that came together to support this incredible cause. That inspiration led to 26 Mountains 2 Mayo, and seeing it come to life has only reinforced the sheer scale of care this charity provides. Our team spans industries, continents, and professions, but we are united by one goal—to make a real impact for children and families in need."
Rugby Legend & Trustee of Cancer Fund for Children, Rory Best, said: "I’ve seen firsthand the power of stepping up for this cause, and to see the baton being passed on with 26 Mountains 2 Mayo is truly humbling. This is more than just a challenge—it’s a lifeline for children and families who need it most. To those climbing, supporting, and spreading the word—I salute you. Let’s dig deep, push forward, and keep climbing."
Every week across the island of Ireland, approximately 10 children and young people( age 0-24) receive a cancer diagnosis, turning their world and their families’ worlds upside down. The funds raised from this challenge will allow Cancer Fund for Children to provide critical emotional, social, and therapeutic support—ensuring no family has to face cancer alone.
On 5th December a number of the team got together for the first time to see Daisy Lodge. A truly inspiring place.
"I'm a huge believer in using the extraordinary strength of the human body and mind to inspire, connect and give back and am delighted to give my full support to the 20 men and women of the 26 Mountains to Mayo team as they take on this remarkable challenge that will change not only the lives of thousands of families across Ireland but also their own lives"
Last week it was my huge honour to meet with the most remarkable person, Lisa Strutt. Lisa lost her husband to a terrible cancer, but has found a way to turn something that was so traumatic for Lisa and her children into one of the most inspiring messages that I can imagine. Lisa shared her story on this TedX link which I am delighted to share.
Lisa and her family benefited from the support of Cancer Fund For Children and is an avid fundraiser, so I am even more delighted to say that Lisa has agreed to help our team with our fundraising efforts for our 26M2M Challenge.
From 7th-15th June 2025, a team of business leaders will tackle the “26 Mountains 2 Mayo” challenge to raise vital funds and awareness for children and young people impacted by cancer across the island of Ireland 💛
Inspired by Rory Best's “Miles 2 Mayo” campaign in 2023, this gruelling 9-day challenge will see this dedicated group climb to the highest point in every county across Ireland. Starting with Errigal in Donegal, they will cover the hills and mountains across Ulster, before moving into Connacht, across to Leinster and down to Munster before making their way back to Connacht for the final leg 🙌
We wish these incredible individuals all the best of luck! Keep your eyes peeled for updates on their mammoth journey 👀💪