Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon continues fundraising legacy

The streets of Leeds were filled with pride, last month as over 12,000 runners took part in the 2025 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, in what has become one of the UK’s most moving and unifying running events.

Thousands of supports lined the streets across the city to cheer on runners of all ages and abilities who turned out to 'Run for Rob' – a heartfelt tribute to the late Rugby League legend Rob Burrow CBE, whose courage after his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease inspired the nation.

The full marathon, named in Rob’s honour, was more than just a race, it was a symbol of resilience and community spirit.

Thousands wore “Run For Rob” shirts and bibs, many bearing the names of loved ones. The event was once again championed by Rob’s former teammates and close friends Kevin Sinfield CBE and Jamie Jones- Buchanan MBE, as well as his wife, Lindsey Burrow.

The marathon and half marathon, organised by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All in partnership with Leeds City Council, brought an electric day of running to the city, with both events starting and finishing at the iconic AMT Headingley Stadium.

Runners faced a scenic, but challenging route that weaved through the heart of Leeds, out into the stunning Yorkshire countryside and back – passing through vibrant communities who turned out in force to cheer them on every step of the way, as well as conquering what the event is known for, the Otley Chevin climb.

The Leeds Marathon Relay bolstered the day as a new addition for 2025. The format saw teams of 7 each take on a leg of the 26.2-mile distance, giving those who wouldn’t usually consider a marathon the opportunity to participate.

In the lead-up to the race, the city came together for a special moment at the MND-Mile, held in partnership with Leeds Beckett University. A one-mile accessible course around the Leeds Beckett Headingley Campus saw over 300 participants walk, wheel or run as the sun shone down. Held in support of MND the event saw a number of charities hold activations, as well as sports activities hosted by Leeds Beckett.

Whilst the event involved some incredible athletic performances, the heart of the event lay in the fundraising. Thousands of runners took part to raise money for causes close to their hearts, with many supporting the event’s official partner charities:

Leeds Hospitals Charity, MND Association, 4ED MND, Alzheimer’s Society, Candlelighters, Happy Days Children’s Charity, Leeds Rhinos Foundation, St Gemma’s Hospice, Leeds North and West Foodbank, My Name’s Doddie Foundation, Stand Against MND and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal.

The fundraising total is expected to make a life-changing impact across the region.

Entries for the 2026 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon are now open, with a limited-time discounted rate available for early sign-ups. Those looking to participate in the Leeds Half Marathon can register their interest at: www.runforall.com