Thousands take part in Rob Burrow Marathon
MORE than 12,000 runners took to the streets of Leeds yesterday to take part in the Rob Burrow Marathon – watched by Mr Burrow and his family, including his wife Lindsey who took part in the race herself.
Kevin Sinfield, whose friendship with his former teammate has inspired thousands across the world, took part again this year after carrying his friend over the finish line in 2023.
Yesterday he met Mr Burrow at the finish line inside the AMT Headingley Stadium, home of the Leeds Rhinos, where they achieved some of their greatest sporting moments together.
After the race, Mr Sinfield said: “Thank you to everyone who has played their part today in another incredible event for so many good causes.”
He has raised more than £800,000 for motor neurone disease, since 41-year-old Mr Burrow was diagnosed with the rare condition in 2019.
The marathon started and ended at AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium in temperatures of 23C, with runners following a circular route that initially winds around Woodhouse Moor before striking out for Adel, Lawnswood, Bramhope, Pool in Wharfedale and Otley.
The event raised funds for several charities including the MND Association and a Leeds Hospitals Charity appeal to build the £6.8 million flagship Rob Burrow Centre for MND.
A total of £5.4m has been raised towards Leeds Hospitals Charity target of £6.8m to fund the building of the new centre at Seacroft Hospital.
The current MND centre is on a busy multi-purpose ward not built with MND patients in mind. Plans were submitted to the council in February.
Mr Burrow said his vision is that people will hear the news of their diagnosis in a “calming and tranquil” sanctuary: “A place where patients feel comfortable to bring family members into a safe and homely environment for them, with signs of hope and optimism”.