Rugby star Kevin Sinfield’s heartfelt thanks after the Leeds Marathon

Rugby star Kevin Sinfield has given a heartfelt thank you to those who took part in and supported the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Half Marathon.

Sunday’s event was held in honor of Sinfield’s former Leeds Rhino teammate Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2019.

Around 14,000 runners, including Mr Burrow’s wife Lindsey, took to the streets for a range of good causes.

Speaking after the event, Mr Sinfield said: “I can’t thank the people enough.”

The races, which started at AMT Headingley Stadium at 09:00 BST, raised funds for various charities such as the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association and a Leeds Hospitals charity appeal to build a Rob Burrow Center for MND.

Speaking to the MND Association after the 26.2 mile (42.2 km) run, Mr Sinfield said: “This is a real marathon about friendship and spirit, camaraderie and team.

“I can’t thank the people enough. The volunteers, the people who helped make this today, every runner who put in all the hard work and then those on the streets who made it such a special day again.”

Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for economy, culture and education, also thanked the volunteers and those involved in organizing the run, adding: “We are incredibly grateful.”

Melissah Gibson was the first woman to cross the finish line, while Joe Sagar won the men’s event.