Three years ago, a determined cyclist – Simon Catnach (Esher RFC) took on a 1,000-mile journey across South America, raising over £3,500 for minis rugby. This year, that same passion fuels a new challenge—one that combines endurance, camaraderie, and a cause that hits close to home.

As the British and Irish Lions tour Australia in July 2025, two retired rugby players—Charlie Beardmore (Guys Hospital RFC) and Simon Catnach (Esher RFC)—are embarking on an epic 1,000-mile cycle across the test venues. Their mission? To raise vital funds for the Doddie Weir MND Foundation, supporting their friend Andy Vaughton—known to his mates as Vaughts.

A Gruelling Ride for a Great Cause

With a combined age of 120 years and a combined weight of 200kg, these retired rugby players are proving that neither time nor distance can dull their competitive edge. Their adventure begins with a 600-mile trek to be completed in from Sydney to Brisbane, covering iconic locations such as Morisset, Bulandelah, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Maclean, and the Gold Coast. The first leg will take 8 demanding days, followed by a well-earned pause to catch some fish and witness the Lions v Wallabies first Test Match.

After a brief recharge, they’ll take on the second leg—400 miles from Sydney to Melbourne, travelling through Jugiong, Wagga Wagga, Albury Wodonga, and Euroa in 6 intense days. Bernard Harrington-Vogt (Guys Hospital RFC) will join them for this stretch, adding an extra push for the final miles before they settle in to enjoy an Aussie Rules match and the second Lions v Wallabies Test.

Raising a Glass, Raising Awareness

Every gruelling mile is fuelled by purpose. As a tribute to Andy Vaughton, Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow, Stephen Hawking, Ronnie Corbett, Roberta Flack, and all those affected by MND, the team will mark each evening with a well-deserved glass of port—raising not just their spirits, but awareness for a disease that has impacted so many lives.

All In for the Cause

Their support vehicle, driven by Paul Terry (Esher RFC), will keep them on track, but make no mistake—Charlie, Simon, Bernard, and Paul are covering every personal expense themselves. Every penny raised will go directly to My Name 5 Doddie, ensuring their efforts truly make a difference.

As the journey unfolds, they won’t just be riding for the love of rugby—they’ll be riding for hope, for awareness, and for the fight against MND.

Want to support their mission? Join the cause, donate, and help push them over the finish line!

Click here to donate