Professor Rob Doughty’s South Island Ride for Heart

Published: 4 March 2025

Prominent cardiologist and Heart Foundation Chair of Heart Health, Professor Rob Doughty, has completed an extraordinary physical challenge—cycling the entire length of New Zealand’s South Island—to raise funds for heart research and honour the memory of his friend and colleague, Associate Professor Malcolm Legget.

Starting on 22 February 2025, Rob set off from Nelson with the goal of completing the demanding route, which passed through Hanmer Springs, Christchurch and Wanaka, in just ten days.

He had some company from friend and cardiologist Associate Professor Nigel Lever, who rode from Nelson for a couple of days with Rob. Nigel also raised over $5k to contribute to Rob’s total.

Associate Professor Nigel Lever with Professor Rob Doughty

While in Christchurch, Rob took a break to discuss his journey so far.

"We've ridden off the main roads, onto gravel roads, behind farms and in fields and even down a riverbed at one point. It’s a beautiful part of the world," he said.

Malcolm Legget, a highly respected cardiologist, sadly passed away on 1 November 2024 after a courageous battle with neuroendocrine cancer. Early in his career, he received an Overseas Training Fellowship from the Heart Foundation, which allowed him to further his expertise in Seattle. Both Malcolm and Rob served for many years together as board members of the Heart Foundation’s Scientific Committee.

"Malcolm was a great friend and was recently honoured in the New Year's Honours list by the King," says Rob. "It's a huge loss to his family and to all of us."

From left to right, Associate Professor Anna Pilbrow, Professor Mark Richards (University of Otago), Professor Rob Doughty, Heart Foundation Medical Director Gerry Devlin, Heart Foundation Nutrition Advisor Laura Mannex

Inspired by his friend’s legacy, Rob ploughed through the cycling journey with a heartfelt purpose—to raise vital funds to support the next generation of heart health professionals in Aotearoa. 

"I wanted to continue Malcolm's passion for advancing heart health by ensuring future generations of New Zealanders have access to the education and training needed to prevent, treat, and manage heart disease," says Rob. 

Pushing through the tough terrain and unpredictable weather, he successfully reached the finish line, marking an incredible achievement both physically and personally.  

In total, Rob cycled 1,110km, with his overall ascent over twice the height of Aoraki Mt Cook at 8,246m. 

His motivation for this challenge was also deeply personal. In 2015, at the age of 51, Rob experienced a heart attack himself. Thanks to the exceptional care he received at Auckland City Hospital—world-class by any standard—he survived and made a full recovery. 

"I owe my life to the incredible dedication and expertise of my friends and colleagues, who provide this level of care day in and day out to countless others facing heart attacks. This experience underscored for me the value of New Zealand's highly trained healthcare workforce," he reflects. 

As a cardiologist based in Auckland, Rob has dedicated 30 years of his career to improving heart health in New Zealand. Throughout his clinical-academic journey, he has received significant support from the Heart Foundation, and he deeply values the organisation’s ongoing commitment to fostering excellence in cardiac care. 

Every kilometre he rode contributed to this cause, helping the Heart Foundation invest in research, training, and resources that will shape the future of cardiovascular care in New Zealand. At the end of the ride, Rob had raised an incredible $62,376.  

This tremendous achievement was not just a physical test of endurance but also a deeply personal tribute to a colleague and friend who dedicated his life to improving heart health.  

"We can’t thank Rob enough for his incredible commitment to raising funds for heart research," says Alison Wheatley-Mahon, Head of Fundraising and Partnerships. "Every dollar will go towards the fight against heart disease. To everyone who donated, we are so grateful for your help in investing in heart research that is saving lives every day as Kiwi cardiologists provide world-class expertise and care."

You can still support Rob's fundraising effort and make a difference by donating through his Raisely campaign. Please give generously so that together, we can honour Malcolm's legacy and help ensure a heart-healthy future for all New Zealanders.