Doddie Weir's Widow Embarks on 750-Mile Charity Cycle for MND Foundation
Kathy Weir, the widow of rugby icon Doddie Weir, is preparing for a formidable 750-mile cycling journey from the Scottish Borders to Dublin, aiming to raise crucial funds for the motor neurone disease (MND) charity established by her late husband. This endurance challenge, known as Doddie's Triple Crown 2026, will see Kathy join hundreds of other riders in support of the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation.
A Legacy of Courage and Commitment
Doddie Weir, the beloved Scotland rugby star, passed away in November 2022 at the age of 52 after living with MND for over six years. He founded the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation in 2017 following his diagnosis, dedicating his final years to raising awareness and funding for research into this debilitating condition. The annual cycling event is spearheaded by former Scotland captain Rob Wainwright, who continues to drive efforts to generate significant donations for MND research.
Kathy Weir, 55, has been a steadfast supporter of the foundation since her husband's death, but now feels mentally prepared to undertake a major fundraising endeavour herself. "This is probably the first year I've felt mentally ready to take on something like this," she shared. "I don't know about physically – but mentally, yes." She candidly discussed the emotional toll of Doddie's passing, noting that she initially struggled with exhaustion and the public nature of their grief. "After Doddie died, I probably wasn't in a great place. I'd tell everyone I was fine, but I was exhausted, mentally and physically. It was emotional and it was public. It's taken time," she explained.
Training and Determination for a Worthy Cause
The cycling challenge is scheduled to commence on March 10, with Kathy diligently training around the Borders in preparation. She admitted to being a "summer cyclist" but is embracing the harsh conditions expected during the ride. "Rob keeps reminding us you don't just ride a bike when it's sunny – apparently we're doing this in wet and windy weather too," she said. Acknowledging the physical demands, Kathy added, "You can't rest tired legs when you're riding four days on the bounce. There will be tough parts – but we're doing it for a reason."
Last year, Kathy participated in the final stage of the ride, which she found helpful in her healing process. "Now I'm at a place where I'm happy to do anything I can to help raise the profile for Rob, the foundation, and for the whole MND community," she stated, highlighting her renewed commitment to the cause.
Family Involvement and Community Support
Doddie's sons, Hamish, Angus, and Ben, have also been actively involved in fundraising efforts for the foundation, demonstrating the family's collective dedication. Rob Wainwright commended their resilience, noting the inherent difficulty of the Triple Crown cycle. "It has to be painful. Three 180 to 200-mile days in a row is relentless – the lack of sleep, the early starts, the cumulative fatigue. And if we get headwinds and rain the whole way, it'll be brutal. But there has to be a challenge," Wainwright explained.
He expressed profound admiration for the Weir family's efforts, saying, "It's immensely positive to see Doddie's family continuing the work he started. To turn something so painful into something forward-looking and positive – I've got enormous respect for Kathy and the boys." Wainwright emphasised the significance of their involvement, adding, "They don't have to carry the baton – there's a huge national and international community behind this and them – but the fact they've chosen to step forward and add their energy to it means a great deal."
Doddie Weir's Enduring Impact
Reflecting on Doddie's legacy, Wainwright highlighted his character and generosity. "Long before his diagnosis, Doddie was building loyalty just by being who he was. He gave his time to people. He was generous and genuinely interested in others," he said. "When he turned that energy towards tackling MND, it created something powerful – and that's why it's still growing." This cycling challenge not only honours Doddie's memory but also amplifies the ongoing fight against motor neurone disease, driven by a community united in purpose and compassion.
