Panthers legend confirms return of charity walk

After the staggering success of the inaugural 'Royce's Big Walk' in 2022, Panthers legend Royce Simmons has confirmed that he'll be undertaking the challenge again in 2023 to continue raising money for Dementia Australia.

A rugby league icon at the foot of the mountains who played all of his 237 career games for the club, Simmons revealed his own Alzheimer's diagnosis in January last year.

With others in mind as much as his own troubles, the Big Walk was created to help support those afflicted with the illness by raising money. The event was very well supported by the public, as well as a number of high-profile rugby league stars and local Penrith community members. In the end, over $1 million was raised.

The 2023 walk will take place between April 18-29, with Simmons making the 313km trek from Dubbo to Bathurst, arriving at Carrington Park to see the Panthers take on Wests Tigers for the Royce Simmons Cup in their Round 9 encounter. Simmons was an assistant coach at the Tigers during two separate spells in his post-playing career - including during their 2005 premiership success.

Just like 2022, there will be events held at many of the towns along the way, with some high-profile appearances and regular updates provided online by Simmons and his support team.

For more information, updates, or simply to donate, head to roycesbigwalk.com.au

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