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Fund raising

Cycling Stars Complete 555-Mile Journey Around Ireland to Raise Funds for Motor Neurone Disease Research

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Cyclists, including Scottish rugby stars Kenny and Gabby Logan, completed a 555-mile journey around the island of Ireland to raise funds for motor neurone disease (MND) research. The challenge, inspired by the late Doddie Weir, was held in memory of the Scottish rugby star who died of MND in November 2022. The cyclists cycled for six days, covering approximately 100 miles per day, and faced challenging terrain and weather conditions. Despite the difficulties, the team remained determined, drawing inspiration from Weir's courage and resilience in the face of the disease.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Doddie5 Lions Challenge raised over £557,000 for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and My Name'5 Doddie Foundation.
  • The challenge was completed by a team of cyclists, including Scottish rugby stars Kenny and Gabby Logan, actor Jamie Bamber, and former Harlequins player Mel Deane.
  • The cyclists faced challenging terrain, including 1,250 meters of climbing on the final day, but were supported by enthusiastic crowds and donations.
  • Doddie Weir's wife, Kathy, and son, Hamish, joined the cyclists on the final day, and the match ball used in the British and Irish Lions' 1888 Cup clash with Argentina was delivered by the cyclists.
  • The challenge is part of Doddie Weir's legacy, who set up the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation in 2017 to raise awareness and funds for MND research.
  • The cyclists were inspired by Weir's courage and resilience in the face of the disease, and his determination to find a cure.
  • The challenge has raised awareness and funds for MND research, highlighting the need for a cure and the importance of support for those affected by the disease.

McCoist, Ally said that they had been well looked after while on the journey, praising the scenery and the hospitality of the Irish people.

Statistics:

  • The Doddie5 Lions Challenge covered a distance of 555 miles around the island of Ireland.
  • The challenge raised over £557,000 for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and My Name'5 Doddie Foundation.
  • The team of cyclists cycled for six days, covering approximately 100 miles per day.
  • The cyclists faced a cumulative elevation gain of 1,250 meters on the final day.
  • The British and Irish Lions' 1888 Cup clash with Argentina will feature the match ball delivered by the cyclists.

Sources:

  • Scottish rugby stars Kenny and Gabby Logan
  • The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association
  • My Name'5 Doddie Foundation
  • The British and Irish Lions' 1888 Cup clash with Argentina
  • Doddie Weir's wife, Kathy, and son, Hamish
  • The PA news agency

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