Rhinos fan to take on 108-mile ultra-marathon for MNDA

Leeds Rhinos fan Andrew Richardson will begin a huge fundraising challenge this week, in aid of the MND Association. 

Starting on Saturday 11th April, Richardson will begin his 108-mile ultra-marathon in Horsforth and then head to Ilkley, Skipton and then the Yorkshire Three Peaks, summits - Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough - before returning to Horsforth in one single effort. 

This follows his previous challenge of "Lap of Leeds" 100km run, which he completed last year, but pushes the distance and elevation significantly further to support the Yorkshire community affected by MND.

So far, the challenge has seen him raise over £7500 for the MND Association, which puts him well on his way to reach his target of £10,000.

Speaking about why he is testing himself with this epic challenge, Richardson said:“A 108-mile ultra-marathon is a huge challenge, but it pales in comparison to what families face when they receive a diagnosis. They don't get to hit 'pause' or stop when they’re tired, so I won’t either. I’m running these 108 miles because they can’t, and because we owe it to the Leeds and Yorkshire community to keep fighting for a cure.

“As a Rhinos fan I was moved by Rob Burrow’s story and how he and his family campaigned to raise awareness and money for the MND Community.  The fundraising challenges that Kevin Sinfield has taken on have also been a massive inspiration.  

“Sadly, my best friend’s mum passed away from MND last year so I will be doing this challenge in her memory too and to support the work MNDA does.  

“When I think about my best mate Will and his mum, and everything they went through in their family, whatever I’m going through is nothing in comparison.”

Andrew has previously run the ‘Extra Mile’ in Kevin Sinfield’s 7 in 7 Challenges and his schedule to prepare for this huge task has involved more than 80 miles per week worth of running, alongside cycling and strength work.

Speaking about the generosity he has seen so far for his challenge, he said: “It makes me feel incredibly grateful for all the donations I have had so far. I know the work the MNDA put in, and that makes me want to raise as much as I possibly can and keep that figure ticking over to try and help them out as much as possible.

If you would like to support Andrew’s 108 Mile Ultra-Marathon for the MNDA visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/leeds-3-peaks-108-ultra