Lewis Moody's 500-Mile MND Cycling Challenge

Lewis Moody's 500-Mile MND Cycling Challenge

Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has announced a significant cycling challenge to raise awareness for motor neurone disease (MND). The 47-year-old, who was diagnosed with MND in September, will embark on a seven-day, 500-mile ride starting in Newcastle and concluding at Twickenham, where he will deliver the match ball for the Premiership final on June 20.

Moody expressed his determination to contribute to the fight against MND, stating, "I feel that I am being brought off the bench to take that baton forward and trying to get this job done." He emphasized the importance of the cause, which aims to find a cure for the degenerative illness that affects six people daily in the UK.

The ride will feature several of Moody's former teammates from the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning squad, including Jonny Wilkinson and Mike Tindall. The initiative supports the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, established by former Scotland player Doddie Weir, who passed away from MND in November 2022. The foundation has raised over £23.5 million for research into treatment since its inception in 2017.

Moody shared his personal experience with MND, noting that he first recognized symptoms while training in the gym. "The only sort of significant noticeable change is still in my hand. The shoulder strength is diminished, but not significantly reduced since diagnosis," he explained.

Despite the challenges, Moody remains optimistic and focused on his abilities. "Those little things mentally are a challenge when they present themselves, but I think within a day you can move past it and just focus on functional things I can do," he said.

The former rugby star has a history of supporting charitable causes, having raised millions for brain tumor research after his retirement. He is now actively seeking sponsors for the upcoming cycling event, which he views as an opportunity to reignite his competitive spirit.

Moody's cycling route will cover various locations, including Ripon, Worksop, and Bath, before culminating at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham. He is excited about the challenge and grateful for the support of his former teammates, many of whom are eager to join him despite their own reservations about cycling.

As he prepares for the ride, Moody is mindful of his health and the advice from specialists regarding MND. "With MND, the specialists were cautious: be wary of extreme exertion, you will fatigue quickly," he noted.

The cycling challenge not only aims to raise funds for MND research but also serves as a testament to Moody's resilience and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by the disease.