Rugby league legend Kevin Sinfield is set to embark on an epic challenge next month, as he aims to run seven marathons in seven days to raise funds and awareness for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
Sinfield will take on the challenge in support of former teammate and close friend Rob Burrow, who’s journey battling with MND has been well-documented since his diagnosis in December 2019.
The initial plan for the challenge was for the former Leeds skipper to run from Scotland to Greater Manchester via Yorkshire, however due to new lockdown restrictions, he will run a marathon each day between December 1 and December 7 as part of a Covid secure team of six around his home in Greater Manchester and place of work in Leeds.
The number seven is synonymous with Burrow, who wore the number on his jersey throughout his playing career, and fittingly the initial aim is to raise £77,777 to support Burrow and his young family, as well as additional funds for the MND Association.
“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,” said Sinfield. “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 that 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.
“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.
“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.”
The event will also be used to help virtually bring together those who are dealing with MND in their homes, with people battling MND or their families encouraged to post their support on social media using the hashtag #RunKevinRun and share their stories.
Every afternoon during the challenge week once Sinfield has completed the run, the Rhinos will be hosting a Zoom call for those wh0 get involved to share their stories along with special guests from tge playing careers or Sinfield and Burrow.
The Fund has already received a huge boost with a £20,000 donation from ACS Stainless Steel Fixings Ltd, who sponsored Burrow throughout his playing career.
If you want to support the event and donate, click HERE.