Lewis Moody and Rugby Legends Embark on 500-Mile Ride to Fund MND Research

Lewis Moody, former England captain and 2003 Rugby World Cup winner, has launched a monumental cycling challenge to raise funds for motor neuron disease (MND) research. The Lewis Moody XV Cycle Challenge, sponsored by Gallagher, kicked off at Newcastle Red Bulls—the former club of the late Doddie Weir, whose foundation is a key beneficiary of this fundraiser.

Over seven days, Moody will cycle 505 miles across England, accompanied by family, friends, and some of rugby’s greatest names. The journey will culminate at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium, where they will deliver the official match ball ahead of the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final between Northampton Saints and Exeter Chiefs.

Joining Moody on this inspirational ride are Rugby World Cup champions Martin Johnson, Jonny Wilkinson, and Jason Robinson, along with former England internationals Martin Corry, Tom Croft, Ben Kay, Joe Worsley, Ben Youngs, and numerous former teammates and friends.

The ride honors the legacy of Doddie Weir, who courageously battled MND after his diagnosis in 2017 and founded the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation to fund research. The riders already have raised over £200,000 as they set off from Newcastle.

This event holds deep personal meaning for Moody, who announced his own MND diagnosis last year. His wife Annie and sons Dylan and Ethan will join him throughout the week, and Doddie’s wife Kathy and son Hamish will ride portions of the route.

In Newcastle, hundreds gathered, including England cricketer Mark Wood, to support the riders. Moody expressed his gratitude: “Seeing the two families united under the My Name’5 Doddie banner is incredible. The energy and support remind us why we’re here—to raise awareness and funding for MND research.”

The route will pass through Ripon, Worksop, Oakham, Leicester, Worcester, Gloucester, Bath, and Bracknell before reaching Twickenham on Saturday. This ride is not only a physical challenge but a powerful campaign accelerating progress toward treatments and a cure for MND.

“MND affects people worldwide and is often underfunded,” Moody said. “Every donation, every show of support brings us closer to breakthroughs. This disease is not incurable—it needs attention and resources.”

The cycling challenge has attracted widespread backing from the rugby community and corporate partners, including official sponsors Gallagher, Y.CO, Switch Car Rental, Britt Security Supplies, Castore, Optimum Nutrition, and TNT Sports.

Since its inception, the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation has committed over £23.5 million to pioneering MND research, fueling hope for those affected by the disease.

The full ride itinerary is as follows: