Retired rugby players to cycle 1,000 miles across Lions Test venues in Australia for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation

This July, as the British and Irish Lions tour Australia, two retired rugby players - Charlie Beardmore (Guys Hospital RFC) and Simon Catnach (Esher RFC) are taking on a 1,000 mile cycle challenge across the Lions Test venues. This is all to raise funds for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and in support of their friend Andy Vaughton - known to his mates as Vaughts - who is living with motor neuron disease (MND). 

The route they are taking is split into two legs. The first will see them cover approximately 600 miles in eight days from Sydney to Brisbane, passing through Morisset, Bulandelah, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Maclean and the Gold Coast. They will then take a much deserved rest to do a bit of fishing and watch the first Lions vs Wallabies Test Match.

Charlie and Simon will then continue with the second leg - 400 miles over six days from Sydney to Melbourne, travelling through Jugiong, Wagga Wagga, Albury Wodonga and Euroa, before celebrating the completion of their challenge by watching an Aussie Rules match and the second Lions vs Wallabies Test.

They’ll be joined on the second leg of the challenge by Bernard Harrington-Vogt (Guys Hospital RFC), adding some extra motivation - and a touch of friendly Guys vs Esher rivalry - to the final miles.

In total, Charlie and Simon will cover 1,000 miles (1,600km) and climb approximately 36,000 feet (11,000m). They’ll be supported throughout by Paul Terry (Esher RFC) who will be driving the support vehicle and keeping everything on track.

Neither Charlie nor Simon have been keen lifelong cyclists: “We’re just retired rugby players, too old and infirm to play rugby anymore,” they admit, “but we needed a new outlet.”

Their training has involved several multi day rides - including one to France last month - and, of course, plenty of carb loading. 

However, they’re not underestimating the physical toll of this challenge: "Fatigue and sore buttocks are inevitable,” they note, “but with appropriate anti chafing measures we’ll keep going.”

To anyone considering fundraising for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, Charlie and Simon say: “Just do it - it’s a great cause and you will derive immense personal satisfaction from the challenge.” Indeed, their motto is “Dare quam accipere” - to give rather than to receive.

“We’d like to thank all those who have contributed to help us with this venture - we couldn’t do it without your support.” 

Charlie and Simon are aiming to raise £10,000 and you can support their efforts via their JustGiving page here. Every pound raised goes directly to My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, as all travel and accommodation costs are being covered personally by the team.