Superfit Scots dad who had 'fabric of life ripped open' after MND diagnosis set to cycle 'UK's toughest ride'

03.08.2022 - 20:31 / dailyrecord.co.uk

A superfit Scots whose family had the 'fabric of their lives' ripped open after he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease is aiming to be the first to cycle the 'UK's hardest ride'.

Davy, from Edinburgh, has been fundraising for charity since being diagnosed with the terminal disease in 2018 after a snowboarding trip to Canada the previous year. The 34-year-old first noticed his thumb had gone numb on the trip, but mistook it for a cold or old skateboarding injury.

After seeking treatment on his return home, Davy was eventually diagnosed with MND - a condition that affects the nerves and brain. But wallowing in despair was no option for determined Davy who vowed to 'live life to the full' and 'make every moment count'.

In August 2020 Davy, his twin brother, Tommy, and a group of friends completed the course across the Highlands, raising over £100,000 for Doddie Weir's foundation, My Name is Doddie.

Now the Edinburgh-born author is set to take on the gruelling 'High Five' route with his brothers Tommy, also 34, and Sorley, 29, as well as five pals. Estimated to be around 265 miles, it will take Davy over five of Scotland’s highest public roads and include just shy of 20,000 feet of climbing.

Speaking to the Record, Davy said: "This route is bonkers for even the most experienced endurance athletes. It's never been done before which is incredibly exciting.

"It’s a step into the unknown and I’m not sure how my body will react. I’m taking on a lot but I’m excited.

“Doing an hour of cycling on your lunch break doesn’t really cut it. You need to go out for eight, nine, ten hours. But thankfully my wife Yvie is hugely supportive and understanding of how much training is required.

“I’m so glad I’m doing this with my brothers and