Runners poured through the streets of Leeds on Sunday in recognition of rugby league hero Rob Burrow, whose battle with motor neurone disease (MND) touched the hearts of the nation. This year’s Leeds Marathon — the first since Burrow’s passing — became more than just a race; it was an emotional celebration of his life, legacy and the enduring fight for a cure.
While much of the focus was on supporting the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), event organisers from Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All encouraged participants to fundraise for a wide range of charities close to their hearts.
From first-time runners to seasoned athletes, people of all ages and backgrounds braved the blistering heat to complete either the half or full marathon. Supporters lined the route from start to finish, clapping, cheering, and waving signs as they urged runners on with incredible noise and enthusiasm.
The annual event proved to be another resounding success, drawing huge praise for its organisation, community spirit, and the heartfelt tributes paid throughout the day.
Lindsey Burrow, Rob’s devoted wife, was once again at the heart of the day’s tributes. Speaking after completing the marathon herself, Lindsey Burrow expressed her appreciation for the overwhelming support: “The support from the city of Leeds that we’ve had has been incredible. To finish at Headingley Stadium is just so special.”
Lindsey was embraced at the finish line by the couple’s three children, a moment that moved many onlookers to tears. Remarkably, it came just a week after she completed the London Marathon — also in honour of her late husband — and stood as a testament to her resilience, strength, and commitment to continuing Rob’s legacy.
Source: Robert Osborne | All Rights ReservedAnother key figure in the marathon was former Rhinos captain Kevin Sinfield, who has become a national symbol of support in the fight against MND. In 2023, he famously carried his best friend Rob Burrow over the finish line at the London Marathon, and has been influential in raising awareness and funds for MND since Burrow’s diagnosis in 2019.
Talking before the run, Sinfield said: “Today is about looking after each other. Today is about running for our little mate Rob Burrow. He’ll be looking down on us proud as punch at what we created here.”
“He’s sent us the sunshine,” he added.
In a fitting touch, the marathon travelled past murals of both Sinfield and Burrow; powerful visuals that represents the pair’s impact on the Leeds community and the wider world on and off the pitch.
Source: Robert Osborne | All Rights ReservedBeyond the touching tributes to Rob Burrow and the MNDA, the occasion also served as a platform for countless other causes and charities.
Sharon, from Huddersfield, was among the spectators and shared her reason for being there: “I’m cheering on my son today, who’s doing the full race. I lost my husband and his dad to lung cancer two years ago and we’ve raised money for Cancer Research UK in his honour.”
“As much as it has been emotional, it’s comforting to know everyone here today wants to help a good cause, whatever that may be. We all have a common goal to improve something for someone.”
Source: Robert Osborne | All Rights ReservedAdam, from Otley, was one of many locals supporting from the sidelines. Expressing his thoughts on the day, he said: “It’s great to see so many people year after year. I’m a big Rhinos fan and losing Rob last year was almost like losing a family member.”
“I’ve not been here to support someone in particular — I just wanted to play my part by donating what I could and encouraging any brave souls running in that heat today, aha.”
For Rob, and for all those facing MND or other life-changing illnesses, the Leeds Marathon stood as proof that love, unity, and togetherness can go a long way.
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