Blockbuster Challenge: series of rides totalling 1,000km in aid of MNDA

In November last year, my eldest brother Hugh was diagnosed with a form of Motor Neurone Disease. This disease is life-shortening and there is no cure. One in 300 of us is at risk of getting MND across a lifetime.

Motor Neurone Disease Association is a leading charity that works to find a cure for MND, and to provide support to those living with MND and support their families.

Hugh has been more than a big brother to me, he has been a hero through what he has achieved in his career and what he has given back to his local community. Hugh was my rock when we lost our Mum to cancer when she was 58 years old. He has faced his diagnosis with his usual grace and good humour and is attacking it head on taking part in a pioneering research project.

It is why I have challenged myself to take on a blockbuster of a challenge in honour of my big brother. I have called it the Blockbuster Challenge because in 1985, aged 18, Hugh was a contestant on Bob Holness’ iconic Blockbuster quiz show. In honour of that moment in our Lumby family history and to raise funds and awareness for MNDA, having being inspired by Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrows, I have committed to don the Lycra, and to take on a series of cycling challenges that total 1,000km. The two most significant ultra-rides are Ride London (160km) on the 26th May, and then riding from London to Paris in early June (500km). This has been joined by a series of 80 to 130km rides in Dorset and Hampshire that have been completed as training for the two ultras. It will finish up with the CBRE Great Property Ride in Surrey in June.

I am hugely thankful to my family for supporting me to do this challenge and my colleagues at Auriens and Allegra.

I would be grateful for any donation big or small that helps me do my bit to support Hugh, but also everyone affected by MND and their families. Together we can find a cure.