Lewis Moody, the former England rugby union captain, has announced a formidable fundraising cycling challenge to this year's PREM Rugby final, aiming to generate crucial funds in the quest for a cure for motor neurone disease (MND). Moody, now aged 47, publicly confirmed his own MND diagnosis in October of last year, joining a growing list of ex-rugby players affected by the condition, including the late Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow, and Ed Slater.
A Personal Mission to Accelerate MND Research
In a powerful statement, Moody declared, 'Since retiring from playing in 2012, I've taken on a fundraising challenge every year and I'm determined to do the same in 2026, despite living with MND.' He emphasised the urgency of his efforts, noting, 'I don't know how many more opportunities I'll have to push myself in this way, which is why taking on this 500-mile cycling challenge now feels so important as I look to support the fight against the disease.'
The challenge, scheduled for June, will see Moody and a host of rugby legends cycle from Newcastle to Twickenham's Allianz Stadium. The event directly supports the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation (MNDF), established by the late Doddie Weir, which has committed over £23.5 million to MND research and provided more than £2 million in direct support to individuals living with the condition.
The Lewis XV: A Star-Studded Peloton for a Cause
Over seven days, Moody will lead the 'Lewis XV' as part of the Lewis Moody & Friends Cycle Challenge. The roster features an impressive assembly of rugby greats, including many of his teammates from England's historic 2003 World Cup-winning squad. Notable participants confirmed are:
- Jonny Wilkinson
- Phil Vickery
- Martin Corry
- Mike Tindall
- Ben Kay
- Kenny Logan
- Tom Croft
- Geordan Murphy
- Leon Lloyd
- Ben Youngs
- Tom Youngs
- Lee Mears
- Danny Care
- Dan Hipkiss
- Andy Gomarsall
- Louis Deacon
Adding a personal touch, Moody's teenage sons, Dylan and Ethan, will also participate in the journey.
A Journey Through Rugby Heritage
The 500-mile route is rich with personal significance for Moody. Planned stop-offs include Leicester, where he won seven PREM titles with his former club, his old school Oakham, and Bracknell, where his rugby journey first began. The culmination will be at Twickenham on June 20th, where the group will ride into the iconic home of English rugby. In a poignant moment, Moody is set to deliver the match ball for the PREM final.
Reflecting on the broader meaning of the challenge, Moody stated, 'But this is about far more than the miles. Like so much of life, it's about people – mates coming together, supporting each other, finding strength in camaraderie and really hoping we can make a difference.' He further articulated his mission: 'Above all, it's about using that energy and the platform I'm fortunate to have, to make as big an impact as possible for everyone living with MND – raising vital funds for the MNDF, accelerating progress and helping drive the change and outcomes this community so urgently needs. I want to do everything in my power to make a difference, building on the work of giants who have gone before me.'
The Fight Against Motor Neurone Disease
Motor neurone disease is a life-shortening neurological condition that attacks the nerves controlling movement, leading to progressive muscle deterioration and loss of function. Currently, there is no known cure for MND, underscoring the critical importance of fundraising initiatives like Moody's cycle challenge. The My Name'5 Doddie Foundation maintains a long-term vision to ultimately discover a cure for this devastating disease.
