Southampton Legend Raises £90K With Lake District Trek

A retired footballer is proving that the most meaningful goals happen off the pitch, and he's inviting fans to join him on his biggest adventure yet.

Franny Benali, a Southampton Football Club legend, has raised close to £90,000 for Saints Foundation through his annual "Benali on Tour" charity treks. This year's challenge takes participants through 10 Lake District summits over three days, covering 14.5 miles of England's most stunning terrain.

The trek runs from April 30 to May 2 and culminates with fans watching Southampton's final away match of the season against Preston North End. Walkers will tackle Scafell Pike, England's tallest peak, during the journey.

For a £200 registration fee, participants get accommodation, meals, and a match ticket included. Organizers ask trekkers to raise a minimum of £750 for Saints Foundation, which supports people in Southampton reaching their full potential.

Benali started these annual challenges in 2023 with a South Downs Way trek. The following year, fundraisers climbed the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Last year's adventure covered 36 miles starting and ending at St Mary's Stadium, taking participants along the Isle of Wight Coastal Trail.

The Ripple Effect

What makes these treks special isn't just the money raised. Benali has created a growing community of repeat participants who return year after year, building friendships while making a difference.

"Every year, the team creates a brilliant atmosphere among fundraisers with a growing group that return year on year," Benali said. "I can't wait to catch up with some old faces, meet some new people, and raise money to help people in our city reach their full potential."

The challenge represents Benali's largest fundraising trek yet, combining physical achievement with community impact. Previous participants describe the atmosphere as electric, with strangers becoming friends as they push through challenging terrain together.

Saints Foundation uses the funds to create opportunities for people across Southampton, from youth programs to community initiatives. Benali's lifetime fundraising total has reached an impressive £1 million, showing how one person's dedication can transform thousands of lives.

Registration is now open for anyone ready to lace up their boots and make a difference one step at a time.