A hero’s welcome for Lewis Moody on day three of his cycling challenge

Lewis is currently on day four of his seven-day challenge for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, cycling 500 miles from Newcastle to the Gallagher PREM Final.

Yesterday was the most emotional moment of the journey so far, when Lewis received a hero's welcome at Oakham School.

Hundreds showed up to cheer the cyclists on, as Lewis returned to the place where his rugby journey began. Lewis was greeted by former teachers, his old 1st XV coach and generations of Oakham pupils and parents, while the school also honoured his contribution to rugby by naming its famous Doncaster Close 1st XV rugby pitch in his honour.

His goddaughter Renee – an Oakham pupil, and daughter of former teammate Leon Lloyd – then surprised Lewis with an emotional speech. She said: 

"You inspire so many people, not just through your achievements, but through the way you treat others and the example you set every day, and I'm confident that you will continue to do so. For those of you here today supporting Lewis and the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, I'd like to highlight to you the Oakham motto, 'Like runners, they pass on the torch of life.' This is a fitting motto for Lewis, as he's one of the most respected Old Oakhamians. Your selfless efforts to raise money to help cure and eradicate MND are like passing on hope and the torch of life. We love you so much, and we are all with you every step of the way."

Speaking to the crowd afterwards, Lewis said: "The diagnosis, when you get it, is a horrible thing. What I experienced with it is very similar to what I felt when I pulled in here – emotions run constantly under the surface, but special people like you guys turning out for people like us trying to make a difference makes us realise how wonderful this world is.

Lewis and the team have three more days to go, continue to support their incredible efforts at: Lewis Moody XV Cycle Challenge - Home