Story
Cycling the Rinks for MND
In October, I’ll be taking on a 170+ mile cycling challenge over three days alongside my friend Jon Fish, who is fundraising for Andy's Man Club (please visit Jon’s page to find out more about the incredible work they do in suicide prevention and supporting men’s mental health).
The charity I am supporting is the Motor Neurone Disease Association, a cause that has become very personal to my family. In September 2025, my dad, Paul Hartley, was diagnosed with Bulbar Motor Neurone Disease.
Bulbar MND affects speech and swallowing, but like all forms of MND, it is a devastating, life-limiting disease that has a huge impact on both those diagnosed and the people who love and care for them. Despite advances in care and support, there is still no cure.
Along Dad’s journey, we have met some truly incredible people. We are grateful for the support of everyone at the Hull & East Yorkshire MND Association Branch, and we've been inspired by families such as the Lidsters – Margaret, Beth and Bex – who sadly lost husband and father David to Bulbar MND. We were also honoured to meet Sir Kevin Sinfield, giving Dad the opportunity to personally thank him for everything he has done to raise awareness and funds for the MND community.
I am cycling for my dad. I am cycling for everyone currently living with MND, for those who will receive a diagnosis in the future, and in memory of those we have sadly lost. We urgently need to find treatments that can slow, stop and ultimately cure this cruel disease.
The Challenge
Over three days, we will cycle between ice hockey arenas while taking in matches along the way:
Day 1 – Friday 2 October
🏒 Hull Ice Arena → iceSheffield
Sheffield Steeldogs vs Telford Tigers
Day 2 – Saturday 3 October
🏒 iceSheffield → Planet Ice Leeds
Leeds Knights vs Milton Keynes Lightning
Day 3 – Sunday 4 October
🏒 Planet Ice Leeds → Hull Ice Arena
Hull Seahawks vs Basingstoke Bisons
Total Distance: Over 170 miles in 3 days.
If you are able to support this cause, no matter how big or small the donation, it would be hugely appreciated. Every penny raised will help the fight against MND and support those affected by the disease.
If you'd like to show your support in person, please get in touch. There will be a gathering at each arena at the end of every day's ride, and we'd love to see as many people there as possible.
Thank you for your support. Together, we can help create a future free from MND. 💙🚴♂️🏒
JustGiving will send your donation directly to the MND Association. Any funds raised here are restricted to MND research so we can find a delay and a cure, faster. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure – your details are safe, they’ll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Every penny you donate matters.
