KOBY Prescott is set to fly out today to lead a team of 12 explorers as they take on the challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

The expedition is set to depart from Manchester Airport on Monday and aims to raise funds for The Steve Prescott Foundation, which supports the Rugby League Benevolent Fund Rugby League Cares and The Christie Charity Hospital.

At just 18 years old, Koby - son of former rugby league player and cancer battler Steve - has already established himself as a seasoned mountaineer.

In 2022, Koby successfully reached Everest Base Camp alongside his mother, Linzi Prescott.

Last year, he conquered Mount Toubkal, Kilimanjaro's neighbour, after participating in a historic game of rugby league in the Sahara Desert.

Steve died in 2013 after complications following a multi-visceral organ transplant. He had fought an incredible battle with a rare form of abdominal cancer.

In recent years his sons Taylor and Koby have followed in their dad’s footsteps, by taking on ambitious charity challenges.

Reflecting on the significance of this climb, Koby stated: “Tackling Kilimanjaro means so much to my family and I. It was my dad, Steve Prescott MBE’s, last wish to take on Kili, so I am pleased to be able to take him with me just like my mum did previously.

“We have once again got a great team together who are all committed to help keep my dad’s legacy alive and support those less fortunate than ourselves.

“It is difficult times for everyone, but we must continue to support our incredible beneficiaries and stick together.”

The team of mountaineers includes: - Ste Cropper SPF Committee Member - Mark Hunt - Paul Griffin - Dave Lawrence Greenhalgh - Ryan Owen - Danny Jackson - Danny Westhead - Sam Bailey - Paul Withnall - Marc Chucky Hall - Ex St Helens RLFC Legend Kyle Amor Testimonial The Steve Prescott Foundation is no stranger to Kilimanjaro, having previously organised challenges in 2013, 2015 and 2017.

Notably, in 2015, they made their mark in the Guinness World Records by completing the highest game of Rugby League in the crater of Kilimanjaro.

To support Koby and his team in this challenge, please visit their JustGiving page: Koby Prescott JustGiving (https://www.justgiving.com/page/koby-prescott-1710441307154).