Former England Captain Completes 500-Mile MND Charity Ride, Reunites with Teammates
It was a joy to reunite – Lewis Moody, the retired England rugby union captain, recently concluded a grueling seven-day charity cycling challenge to raise funds for motor neurone disease (MND) research. The event, which took place at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium, marked a poignant moment of reunion with his former teammates, a highlight that Moody described as “a joy” and a deeply meaningful experience.
The 2003 World Cup winner embarked on his 500-mile journey from Newcastle last Sunday, traversing a demanding route that tested both endurance and spirit. The ride, part of a fundraising initiative, has already garnered over £500,000 in support for Doddie Weir’s My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. Moody’s participation underscores his commitment to the cause, especially after being diagnosed with MND in September of last year.
Moody’s team for the challenge included his wife, Annie, and their two sons, Dylan and Ethan. Accompanying him were several former rugby stars, such as Kenny Logan, Geordan Murphy, Louis Deacon, and Joe Worsley, who provided both encouragement and logistical support along the way. Their presence highlighted the collective effort of the rugby community to stand in solidarity with Moody and others affected by the devastating condition.
Moody’s diagnosis has sparked a wave of support from his peers. Among those who joined him on the final day were Martin Johnson, Jonny Wilkinson, and Martin Corry—names that once defined the golden era of English rugby. Reconnecting with these icons was a emotional milestone, as it reminded Moody of the camaraderie that sustained him during his career and continues to do so now.
“It’s meant the world to me to see the level of support we’ve had all along the route,” Moody reflected after crossing the finish line. “When you’re part of a team, it’s about standing up for each other. While my diagnosis is a tough reason for us all to come together, they’re desperate to help me, my family, and the Foundation get to where we need to.”
The ride’s significance extends beyond personal triumph. Moody emphasized that the event was not just about fundraising but also about raising awareness for MND, a condition that has claimed several prominent rugby figures. Former Scotland international Doddie Weir, who passed away in 2022 at age 52, founded the charity in his honor, and it has since raised over £23.5 million for research into the disease. Similarly, Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow lived with MND for more than four years before his death in 2024 at 41, inspiring others to contribute to the cause.
“It’s been a joy to come together with all my team-mates—we don’t get to do it very often—and it’s been fantastic to all come together to try and help us tackle motor neurone disease,” Moody added. “Throughout this ride, we’ve met so many people living with the disease at different stages of progression. For me and my family to see that is hard, but you have to front up to the reality of the disease, because it is a difficult disease.”
Moody’s journey also served as a platform to highlight the importance of action in the fight against MND. “But there is hope in this space now, because of the work Doddie did, because of the work Rob Burrow did, and because of the work I want to do,” he said. “Hope is meaningless without action, and that’s why we’re here, and that’s why we need everybody from all walks of life to front up too.”
Moody expressed gratitude for the recognition his diagnosis has brought, while also acknowledging the unique position it places him in. “I don’t want to be the person that everybody is here for—because of my diagnosis—but strange though it sounds, it is a privilege to be in this position,” he noted. The sentiment resonated with those who followed his progress, as the event became a symbol of resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
Moody’s message to supporters was clear: the goal is to maximize donations and create a lasting impact. “We are here to raise as much money as possible to make as big a difference as possible,” he said. “We’ll do that through My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which has already made significant strides in advancing research and supporting patients.”
The seven-day ride, which combined physical exertion with emotional weight, has become a landmark event for MND awareness. Participants faced varied challenges, from unpredictable weather to steep inclines, yet the determination of the group remained unwavering. Each mile cycled contributed to a larger mission, amplifying the voices of those living with the disease and encouraging broader public engagement.
Moody’s story is part of a growing narrative of athletes using their platforms to champion causes. His efforts align with those of Rob Burrow and Doddie Weir, whose legacies continue to drive progress. The synergy between their contributions has fostered a culture of giving, where rugby players not only celebrate their past achievements but also commit to future impact.
Moody’s participation has also inspired local communities along the route. Stories of individuals battling MND have been shared, fostering empathy and encouraging others to join the fight. The event’s success is a testament to the power of collective action, proving that even in the face of a challenging disease, hope and determination can lead to tangible change.
For those interested in supporting Moody’s cause, donations can be made through the official website lewismoodyxv-cyclechallenge.com or the foundation’s platform myname5doddie.com. These links offer a direct way to contribute to the ongoing efforts to find a cure and improve the lives of those affected by MND.
As the final leg of the ride concluded, Moody’s journey stood as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance. His words and actions have not only raised critical funds but also ignited a renewed sense of purpose within the rugby community and beyond. The experience, though physically demanding, has been a source of strength, bridging the gap between past glory and present struggle.
