Kevin Sinfield completes ultra marathon challenge in Headingley

Kevin Sinfield completes ultra marathon challenge in Headingley

Kevin Sinfield has successfully completed an extraordinary feat, running seven ultramarathons over the course of seven consecutive days. This effort was dedicated to raising both funds and awareness for motor neurone disease (MND). Covering a total distance of approximately 300 kilometers (around 185 miles), Sinfield’s journey began at Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club and culminated at Headingley Stadium, home to the Leeds Rhinos.

Throughout the challenge, Sinfield maintained a daily distance of at least 45 kilometers (27.9 miles), breaking the runs into segments of roughly 7 kilometers (4.3 miles). On the final day, he crossed the finish line amid a crowd of hundreds who had gathered in the North and West stands of Headingley to support and celebrate his remarkable achievement. The last leg of the seven-day event began at Queen Ethelburga’s College near York, marking the penultimate step before reaching the stadium.

Reflecting on the experience, Sinfield expressed deep appreciation for the MND community. He stated, “To the MND Community and the people we’ve met on route, all through the last week, all through the past five years, to everybody we’ve met – it’s an absolutely beautiful community. We’ve got to keep fighting for the MND Community.” His words underscored the emotional and motivational foundation driving his challenge.

Sinfield was not alone at the finish; thousands of participants dressed as Santas for the Leeds Santa Dash joined him during the final few kilometers. Among those running alongside him were notable figures including triathlete Jonny Brownlee and boxer Josh Warrington. Remarkably, this week-long endeavor raised more than £1.15 million, surpassing the initial goal of £777,777. The funds will support several organizations dedicated to MND, including the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, MND Scotland, Leeds Hospitals Charity, and The Darby Rimmer MND Foundation.

In a poignant backstory, Sinfield’s motivation is closely tied to his late friend Rob Burrow. The two first met as teenagers at the Leeds Rhinos academy and later played together professionally at the club. Burrow was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in December 2019 and passed away in June 2024, inspiring Sinfield’s tireless campaign to aid others battling the condition

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More