A Special Homecoming for Lewis Moody
Oakham School welcomed back one of its most celebrated Old Oakhamians this week, as former England captain and Rugby World Cup winner Lewis Moody (’96) returned to campus during his remarkable 500‑mile cycle challenge in support of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.
Photo credit: www.GerryWeatherheadPhotography.co.uk
Moody, who revealed his motor neurone disease (MND) diagnosis last year, was visibly moved as he rode into Chapel Close to the sound of cheers and applause from hundreds of pupils, staff, former teachers, parents and members of the local community. The surprise reception left him overwhelmed, describing the moment as one filled with “emotions running constantly under the surface”.
The visit formed part of the Lewis Moody XV Cycle Challenge, which sees Moody, his family, friends and former teammates cycle from Newcastle to Twickenham to raise funds for MND research. The challenge has already raised close to £300,000.
Photo credit: Tim George
A Warm Welcome and Heartfelt Tributes
Former rugby player and Housemaster of Haywoods Glenn Gelderbloom opened proceedings with a warm address, followed by words from Headmaster Henry Price former teacher Ian Smith, who reflected on Moody’s early rugby days at Oakham and the determination that shaped his career.
One of the most emotional moments came from Seventh Former Renée Lloyd, Moody’s goddaughter, who delivered a powerful and deeply personal speech. Drawing on the School’s motto, she told him:
“Your selfless efforts to raise money to help cure and eradicate MND are like passing on hope and the torch of life… we are all with you every step of the way.”
Moody fought back tears as he listened, later thanking the Oakham community for their support and emphasising the importance of continuing the fight for a cure. He said:
“Special people like you turning out for people like us trying to make a difference makes us realise how wonderful this world is… With love and support from people like you it’s easier. Please continue with us on this journey.”
An impromptu singalong to 500 Miles by the Proclaimers with a pupil band rounded off proceedings before Lewis headed off on the next leg of his challenge.
A Lasting Honour
In a surprise announcement, Lewis’s former teacher and mentor
Ian Smith revealed that Doncaster 1, the School’s historic 1st XV pitch, will be renamed in Moody’s honour. The gesture recognises both his outstanding rugby achievements and his enduring connection to Oakham School.
Headmaster Henry Price said:
“We are delighted to recognise Lewis by naming one of our Doncaster Close rugby pitches after him. His impact on Oakham and the wider rugby world continues to inspire future generations.”
A Musical Send‑Off
As the event drew to a close, the Oakham community joined together for an impromptu singalong of “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers, accompanied by a talented pupil band. The joyful moment brought smiles across Chapel Close and provided the perfect send‑off before Lewis set off on the next leg of his challenge.
Continuing the Journey
Moody left Oakham surrounded by family, friends and rugby legends including Martin Johnson, Martin Corry, fellow Old Oakhamian Tom Croft and Leon Lloyd, before continuing the next leg of the challenge towards Leicester Tigers’ Welford Road, the club where he spent more than 15 years and won seven Premiership titles.
Reflecting on the ride so far, he said:
“Meeting people living with MND has been a powerful reminder of why we’re doing this… There is more hope than ever before, but there is still a huge amount of work ahead. We need effective treatments and ultimately we need a cure.”
He added:
“Doddie and his family started it… We now have that torch, and we’ll take it a long way, and hopefully to the finish line.”
The Lewis Moody XV Cycle Challenge sponsored by Gallagher sees Moody, family, friends and rugby legends cycle more than 500 miles in seven days from Newcastle Red Bulls to Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, where they will deliver the match ball ahead of the Gallagher PREM Rugby Final.
The challenge is raising funds for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which has committed more than £23.5 million to research into effective treatments and a cure for MND.
Title partner Gallagher is supporting the challenge alongside a number of corporate partners from across sport and business. The ride is also being supported by Y.CO – Official Partner of the Challenge; Switch Car Rental – Official Vehicle Partner; Britt Security Supplies – Official Security Partner; Castore – Official Sportswear Partner; Schoffel – Official Clothing Partner; Optimum Nutrition – Official Nutrition Partner; and TNT Sports.
Support the Cause
For more information, and to donate, visit lewismoodyxv-cyclechallenge.com or myname5doddie.co.uk.
Head to our Flickr gallery to relive all the excitement from the occasion.
