Prince William praises 'inspiring' Kevin Sinfield

Prince William praises 'inspiring' Kevin Sinfield

Kevin Sinfield is approaching the completion of his latest ultramarathon challenge, an effort to raise funds for motor neurone disease (MND) treatment and research. The Prince of Wales extended his “huge congratulations” to Sinfield, highlighting the former rugby league star’s attempt to run seven ultramarathons in seven days as “incredible.” Through a social media message, Prince William lauded Sinfield’s dedication to his late friend and ex-Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow, as well as to all those affected by MND, calling it “truly inspiring.”

The final stage of Sinfield’s challenge will see him running from North Yorkshire to Leeds on Sunday, concluding at the Rhinos’ AMT Headingley Stadium. The event, known as the “7 in 7: Together” challenge, began on Monday and represents Sinfield’s sixth annual fundraiser to support the MND community. This personal mission was sparked by Burrow’s diagnosis with motor neurone disease in 2019. To date, Sinfield has raised over £10 million to support research and families dealing with the condition, surpassing his fundraising goal of £777,777 for MND charities this year. By Saturday afternoon alone, the amount raised surpassed £1 million, all of which will be distributed among six MND organizations. The name of the challenge, “7 in 7,” pays homage to Burrow’s former shirt number.

Prince William expressed his admiration in direct terms: “Kevin, huge congratulations on nearing the finish of your incredible 7 in 7 challenge! Your commitment to Rob and everyone affected by MND is truly inspiring. Thank you for shining a light on the need for research and support, and for the hope and example you bring. Look after those knees! W.” The Prince has previously met both Sinfield and Burrow and, in January 2024, honoured them both by making them Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBEs) during a ceremony at Headingley Stadium.

In a poignant turn, Rob Burrow passed away in mid-2024 at age 41 after a prolonged battle with motor neurone disease, during which he had become an active advocate for raising awareness and funds for the illness. Prince William also committed to opening the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, an event that took place last month with Sinfield, Burrow’s widow Lindsey, and their children Macy, Maya, and Jackson in attendance. Known for his remarkable support, Sinfield famously carried Burrow across the finish line at the Leeds Marathon in 2023, an iconic demonstration of their friendship and determination. On the last day of his current ultramarathon, Sinfield is expected to join fellow runners in the Santa Dash for the final leg and celebration of his journey

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More