Pedals, passion and a push for a cure: Doddie’5 riders hit the road Down Under 

Motor neurone disease knows no borders. Neither do the people working around the world to defeat it.  

This week, that global spirit rolled straight into FightMND HQ, as the lycra-clad legends behind the Dodd1e’5 Gr4nd S7am Tour dropped by for a visit. Just days before hitting the road, the cyclists swapped cleats for conversation, joining the FightMND team for a lively visit that was part panel, part pit stop and a great chance to connect before the challenge ahead. 

Hosted by FightMND CEO Matt Tilley, the panel brought together some serious cycling and rugby firepower. On the mic were tour co-captains, former Scottish Rugby Union President, Ian Barr and Doddie Aid Welsh Captain, Rob Boyns, Doddie Aid Welsh Captain. They were joined by Nicola Roseman, CEO of the UK-based My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, who shared insights into the global impact of their work. 

The visit was more than a pit stop. It was a powerful reminder of what happens when international teams come together, fuelled by a common goal. 

The Melbourne to Sydney Challenge 

The Dodd1e’5 Gr4nd S7am Tour is no ordinary bike ride. Over five gruelling days, between 27 to 31 July 2025, the team will cover 1,200km and climb more than 11,000 metres through the rugged Snowy Mountains. It’s a true test of endurance and a tribute to the legendary Doddie Weir, the late Scottish rugby great who turned his MND diagnosis into a legacy of action. 

Led by Ian and Rob, the squad features rugby royalty — including former British and Irish Lions and European Cup winners like Roger Baird, Paul Volley and Huw Davies. As the British and Irish Lions Tour lights up Australia, these riders are channelling that same spirit into a different kind of test match. One against time, against odds, and against MND. 

United for a Cure: FightMND x My Name’5 Doddie 

Funds raised from the Australian leg of the tour will go directly to FightMND, powering research breakthroughs and patient care. The partnership between FightMND and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation crosses oceans and proves that no distance is too great when it comes to fighting this disease. 

Every kilometre counts. Every dollar makes a difference. And every effort brings us one step closer to a cure. 

Learn more about the Dodd1e’5 Gr4nd S7am Tour and donate today at fightmnd.org.au