Doddie’5 Lions Challenge rolls into Ballymena as 555-mile charity cycle begins
- Love Ballymena
- Jun 13
- 2 min read
Ballymena will proudly play host to a team of sporting legends this Sunday, 15 June, as the Doddie’5 Lions Challenge begins its 555-mile cycling journey across Ireland in aid of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which funds research into a cure for Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
Cycling heroes including former Scotland rugby star Kenny Logan and football legend Ally McCoist will arrive at Eaton Park at approximately 11:15am as part of Day One of the six-day endurance event.
The challenge launches from Kingspan Stadium in Belfast, with Ballymena marking a key early stop before the cyclists push on to Monaghan by the end of the day.
Covering an arduous 99.1 kilometres on the first stage—with an elevation gain of 1,866 metres—the route is a formidable test of stamina and spirit, expected to take around nine and a half hours to complete.
The ride will traverse all four provinces of Ireland, weaving through picturesque yet punishing landscapes. Key stops include Galway, Limerick, Cork, Waterford, Wicklow, and the final destination of Dublin—uniting supporters of the foundation along the way.
The Doddie’5 Lions Challenge is part of a broader campaign by the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, created by late Scottish rugby great Doddie Weir, who was diagnosed with MND in 2016. His foundation has since become a beacon of hope, funding ground-breaking research and support for those affected by the incurable condition.
“This challenge is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when sport, community, and compassion come together,” said a foundation spokesperson.
“Each mile cycled is another step closer to finding a cure for MND.”
Local residents and supporters are encouraged to come out and cheer the riders on as they pass through Ballymena, and donations to support the foundation’s vital work are warmly welcomed.
To contribute to the cause or learn more about the event, visit the Ballymena Rugby Club JustGiving page by tapping the button below!
