Penarth dad wins cycle award despite diagnosis of terminal lung cancer

Craig Maxwell, 41, has been named the winner of the inaugural Cycling Plus Ride of The Year after showing determination in the wake of his terminal cancer diagnosis.

The award from the cycling magazine Cycling Plus recognises individuals who have made a significant impact on cycling in 2023.

Mr Maxwell was diagnosed with a rare form of stage four genetic lung cancer in September 2022, after feeling unwell and coughing up blood following his first ride from Cardiff to Paris.

After 72 days of tests and biopsies, he was diagnosed with incurable cancer and has since dedicated himself to raising awareness to help others.

Craig Maxwell centre, with a group of cyclists at the Principality Stadium. Picture: Supplied (Image: supplied)Mr Maxwell (above, centre) has completed a 320-mile ride from Cardiff to Paris, a 420-mile ride from Paris to Bordeaux and CARTEN along with a 100-mile cycle from Cardiff to Tenby.

The award from the cycling magazine Cycling Plus recognises people who have made a significant contribution impact on cycling in 2023.

He was presented with his award at an exclusive ceremony attended by cycling industry members and riders from across the country.

His story touched the hearts of many, rallying support that surpassed all expectations which has seen him raise £430,000 to support the QuicDNA project.

With a further £500,000 donated by The Moondance Cancer Initiative – set up by Henry and Diane Engelhart, two of the founders of the Admiral Group.

The QuicDNA project aims to shorten the time it takes to diagnose lung cancer patients in Wales with Maxwell now aiming to raise £1m

To follow Maxwell’s fundraising journey and show your support head to the Maxwell Genomics Family Fund on social media - @maxwellgenomicsfund.