Renfrewshire Father and Daughter Cycle for MND Fundraiser
A Renfrewshire firefighter, Barrie McCutcheon, and his cyclist daughter, Isla, are gearing up to join a team of fundraisers for a charity cycling challenge to support individuals with motor neurone disease (MND). Barrie, a group commander with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) in the East and West Dunbartonshire, Argyll and Bute region, resides in Johnstone. His daughter Isla, aged 18, has been cycling since the age of eight and is an amateur road-racing cyclist who has participated in races across Britain and Europe.
The father-daughter duo, along with a team of firefighters and staff from East and West Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute, will embark on the Doddie Aid cycle challenge, covering 700 miles from Stranraer in Wigtownshire to Edinburgh over four days. The challenge commences today and concludes in Edinburgh on Saturday, January 8, ahead of the Scotland v Ireland Six Nations match on Sunday. The team aims to raise £10,000 for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which supports MND research.
Isla, one of the youngest participants in the fundraiser, will celebrate her 19th birthday during the event. Despite not having cycled for around three years, Barrie is excited to cycle alongside his daughter, sharing their passion for bikes for a great cause. Isla’s cycling journey began at a young age, winning the British championships in Scarborough at only 12 years old. She is currently part of the Solas Race Team, Scotland’s first team for junior women cyclists.
Doddie Aid, launched in 2021 by former Scotland captain Rob Wainwright, has contributed over £5 million to the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. It is commendable to see the McCutcheons and their fellow firefighters supporting this cause, demonstrating dedication and commitment to raising funds for MND research.
In conclusion, the McCutcheons’ participation in the Doddie Aid cycle challenge exemplifies the spirit of community and altruism. Their commitment to cycling 700 miles to support individuals with MND is truly inspiring, reflecting the importance of coming together to make a positive impact on those in need.