Kevin Sinfield showcased an incredible bond of friendship and determination as he supported his teammate Rob Burrow during the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. Despite Burrow’s battle with motor neuron disease (MND), Sinfield pushed him throughout the entire 26.2-mile course. The pinnacle of this emotional journey came just before the finish line when Sinfield lifted Burrow from his chair and carried him in a triumphant moment of solidarity.
Through a series of impressive challenges, such as completing seven marathons and seven ultramarathons in just seven days, Kevin Sinfield has displayed an unparalleled dedication to his cause, resulting in the remarkable achievement of raising over £8 million. Sinfield humbly referred to the ultramarathon endeavor as “a run for a mate with other mates,” underscoring the camaraderie and support that fueled his extraordinary accomplishments, as reported by The Guardian.
Despite being diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND) in January 2020, Rob Burrow bravely joined his friend Kevin Sinfield and 12,000 other participants in the marathon. Muscle weakness and visible wasting are typical symptoms of MND, which is a rare condition that progressively damages specific areas of the nervous system, according to NHS inform.
@BigOtrivia BigO U might want 2 share this with ur followers…This is the epitome of friendship & love..one of the most honourable & beautiful things I have seen. Kevin Seinfeld carrying his former teammate Rob Borrow who has MND., over the finish line.
— Mr 95% (@believe_rebuild) May 15, 2023
pic.twitter.com/2SHPkpcysV
During the marathon event, which was originally planned for 7,777 runners in honor of the number seven jersey that Burrow wore during his time at Leeds, Sinfield and Burrow were surrounded by an overwhelming number of participants due to high demand.
Amidst the enthusiastic cheers from the crowd, Sinfield shared a touching moment with Burrow, kissing his cheek and emphasizing the value of their friendship. “Today is all about celebrating friendship,” said Sinfield. “The support for the MND community during the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon has been amazing.”
Over 40% of the 12,000 runners, including Burrow’s wife Lindsey, were participating in a marathon for the first time. Sinfield was excited to spend time with Burrow before the race, recalling their funny moments during a trial run for the Leeds 10k event. Despite the communication difficulties faced by Burrow, Sinfield recognized his friend’s laughter and promised that they would have a good time together during the marathon.
On the pitch where they made so many memories together, Kevin Sinfield finishes the #RobBurrowLeedsMarathon at Headingley and carries his team mate @Rob7Burrow over the line.#RunningForAMate #BandOfBrothers 💙💛 #MND
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) May 14, 2023
Please donate https://t.co/VIOxdeUyQL pic.twitter.com/l6lOtxoF29
The marathon, which commenced and concluded at Headingley Stadium, took Sinfield and Burrow slightly over four hours and 20 minutes to finish. With the marathon being the first of its kind in Leeds in two decades, Sinfield emphasized its focus on “friendship and community.”
Burrow, aiming to establish an MND Care Centre in Leeds, expressed his aspirations in an interview with Sky Sports. He envisioned a serene sanctuary where individuals diagnosed with MND receive the news in a calming environment. Burrow described his vision as a beautiful and welcoming facility that prioritizes the comfort of patients and their families, creating a safe and homely atmosphere infused with hope and optimism.
Lindsey Burrow, despite suffering from a knee injury, was determined to complete her first full marathon in Leeds and has managed to raise over £10,000 on her JustGiving page. The Leeds Marathon and Half Marathon were jointly organized by the Leeds City Council and the Run For All charity founded by Jane Tomlinson.
The event has raised over £1 million in funds. Kevin Sinfield, an esteemed rugby league player and currently the defense coach for England rugby union, has been widely praised on social media for his extraordinary acts of support for his close friend and teammate, Rob Burrow. One Twitter user, @greattobehere2, remarked, “Hats off to Kevin. A true and loyal friendship, no question. Love to Kevin and Rob from a rugby league fan.”
Don't tell me people don't have a tear in their eye watching that 😢 Beyond brilliant friendship, if there isn't a knighthood incoming then there's no justice 👏 Hopefully lots of money raised to move us all towards a cure ❤❤
— Paul Wickson (@PaulWickson) May 14, 2023
Just finished marathon watching this, Kevin this is an act of pure friendship, beyond words, none needed ❤️ Warriors on the pitch, lifelong bond, what a day, Leeds you did everyone proud, really #LeedsHalfMarathon #RobBurrowLeedsMarathon 🧡💙
— Martyn Clarke (@clarkemartyn1) May 14, 2023
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