Inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon a massive hit

The inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and half marathon was a massive success on a bright and sunny day in Leeds. Tens of thousands of well wishers packed the streets across the route that started and ended at Headingley Stadium before moving through Hyde Park, Headingley, Weetwood, Bramhope, Arthington, Pool and Otley before heading back to Headingley. 

The morning started with some inspirational words from legendary Rhinos skipper Kevin Sinfield who famously said he was just going on a run with some mates for a mate. 

Our skipper gives one more team talk - to 15,000 people! pic.twitter.com/Uz7aZJurw8
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) May 14, 2023

The whole event was a huge logistical challenge for the Rhinos and the event organisers Run For All but it was a phenomenal event. Rhinos Head of Customer Experience Sian Jones ran her own half marathon on Friday morning because she had to work at the event and she told us how special the day had been. 

Head of Customer Experience @sianyj83 said it was a proud day to have the #RobBurrowLeedsMarathon take place at Headingley Stadium and overwhelming to see the support for @Rob7Burrow.

Please support the #TeamRhinos runners if you canhttps://t.co/VIOxdeUyQL pic.twitter.com/pQZr3j6hpQ
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) May 14, 2023

There was an emotional moment as Kevin Sinfield carried Rob Burrow over the finishing line having pushed him the whole way around the entire course. 

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
Please donate https://t.co/VIOxdeUyQL pic.twitter.com/l6lOtxoF29
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) May 14, 2023

But perhaps the biggest cheer of the day was reserved for Rob's wife, Lindsey, running her first marathon and doing the whole Burrow proud. 

Our hero Lindsey Burrow ?? pic.twitter.com/9QCrjsefFz
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) May 14, 2023

The event was made so special because everyone's reason for running. Whilst Rob was at the forefront of everyone's minds, everyone had their own special motivation. 

Rhinos fan Chris Armstrong completed the #RobBurrowLeedsMarathon today in memory of his dad, who lost his battle with #MND 20 years ago.

Well done to all the Rhinos fans who took part?? You can donate to #TeamRhinos here https://t.co/VIOxdeUyQL pic.twitter.com/qDJWR2Rq7L
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) May 14, 2023

We'll leave the last word with Sir Kev, see you in 2024

‘The support on the streets has been amazing… roll on 2024’

Kevin Sinfield after more than 12,000 people take part in the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds marathon pic.twitter.com/MmFj1I3Gx3
— BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) May 14, 2023