Leeds Rhinos legend Kevin Sinfield to run 7 marathons in 7 days for Rob Burrow and MND Association
Leeds Rhinos director of rugby Kevin Sinfield is set to embark on an epic challenge to raise funds and awareness for his friend and former teammate Rob Burrow who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease less than a year ago.
From December 1, Sinfield will run seven marathons in seven days, with an initial target of raising £77,777 for the fund set up to support Burrow - who wore the number seven jersey during his playing career - and his family, plus additional funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).
ACS Stainless Steel Fixings Ltd, who sponsored Burrow during his career at Rhinos, have already pledged £20,000.
Sinfield will run as part of a small Covid-secure team of six around his home area of Greater Manchester and from his place of work in Leeds.
Originally the plan had been to run from Scotland via Yorkshire to Manchester, but the national lockdown has forced a re-think.
Sinfield said: “We have been planning for a number of months to do something special for Rob ahead of the anniversary of his announcement of his diagnosis.
“The recent documentary on the BBC was watched by over 3 million people and Rob’s story has inspired so many.
“Rob has always said he is revealing his story for those who don’t have the chance to do so and we want to make the run about that too.”
The aim is to complete each marathon in under four hours.
“Undoubtedly this is going to be incredibly tough, but it is nothing compared to what Rob and his family are going through and they will be our inspiration every step of the way,” Sinfield added.
“Having been part of a bio-secure environment with the Rhinos since July, we will be implementing those plans to make sure the whole event is done as safely as possible.
“We are speaking to the local authorities to make sure everything is done within the current restrictions, with everyone tested prior to the event and daily medical checks before we begin.
“With us being based near to home, everyone will stay at their own residence between each run.”
Donations can be made by logging on to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/sinfield-7-in-7.