Lewis Moody sets off on epic 500-mile cycle to support fight against MND
Former England captain sets off on a seven-day ride from Newcastle to Twickenham to raise awareness and funds for motor neurone disease following his diagnosis last year
Lewis Moody has today begun an extraordinary 500-mile cycling challenge, riding from Newcastle to Twickenham over seven days in support of the fight against motor neurone disease (MND).
Famously known as “Mad Dog,” Moody is a legendary flanker who spent the bulk of his illustrious career at the Leicester Tigers, where he helped the club secure seven Premiership titles and two European Cups.
He also earned international recognition with England, captaining his country and becoming one of the defining forwards of his generation.
For this latest challenge, Moody leads ‘The Lewis XV’ – a team of former teammates, rugby legends, close friends and family – who will complete the route together, finishing at Allianz Stadium ahead of the Gallagher Premiership Final.
The journey is deeply personal, with Moody’s teenage sons, Dylan and Ethan, riding alongside him throughout the seven-day ride. The route will pass through key landmarks in his life and career, including Bracknell RFC, where he began his rugby journey, Oakham School, and former clubs Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby.
The route:
- Sunday 14 June: Newcastle Red Bulls to Ripon
- Monday 15 June: Ripon to Worksop
- Tuesday 16 June: Worksop to Oakham School to Leicester Tigers
- Wednesday 17 June: Leicester Tigers to Worcester Warriors
- Thursday 18 June: Worcester Warriors to Bath Rugby
- Friday 19 June: Bath Rugby to Bracknell RFC
- Saturday 20 June: Bracknell RFC to Allianz Stadium, Twickenham
Following his diagnosis with MND in October last year, Moody has taken time to better understand the condition and the urgent need to accelerate research, support, and progress towards effective treatments.
The challenge marks the beginning of Moody’s support for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, helping continue the legacy of the late Doddie Weir and its mission to create a world free from MND. The Foundation works to fund research and raise awareness for a condition that continues to urgently need greater investment.
Over the coming days, Moody and The Lewis XV will share their journey as they make their way south, bringing attention to MND and encouraging support for ongoing research and care.
As the challenge begins, Moody is inviting supporters to follow the ride, share the story, and help accelerate progress in the fight against MND.