This year saw the third edition of the ‘Run For All’ Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon held once again alongside the Leeds Half marathon. Thousands of Runners took on the challenge, after months of training some toed the start line with trepidation at their first marathon, some who must have lost count just how any they have one to date and some nursing injuries but all determined they were going to complete the enormous challenge ahead alongside Kevin Sinfield OBE who this year took part in this, the first edition since the tragic, sad passing of Rob Burrow. We all knew it was going to be an emotional day at some point for those who were honoured to be able to run shoulder to shoulder in memory of the late patron who continues to be a true inspiration and all are proud to run in his memory for those with MND – a cause he championed so bravely.
Billed as a marathon for everyone, it lived up to it’s reputation as record breaking numbers (over 12000 signed up to take part), reportedly over half of these tackling 26.2 miles for the very first time! It’s rising in popularity, each year the streets of Leeds echo with the footsteps of thousands, united by a common purpose: to Run For Rob, welcoming runners from all corners of the UK and across the world. Receiving support far and wide, the event has reached runners as far as the US, Canada South Africa and China. Starting and finishing at the world renowned Headingley Stadium, the marathon route explored the very best of Leeds. From stunning scenery to the diverse neighbourhoods, runners were cheered along by the great Yorkshire spirit we all know and love. There was plenty lined up to keep them entertained on course, from local music groups to cheer stations. Former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in December 2019. Since then, Rob’s family campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness and funds to support other families living with MND. The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon will see participants take on a brand new route and will be a fitting tribute to the city that launched Rob’s career and which he called home.
The 26.2-mile circular route started and finished at Headingley Stadium. Runners left the stadium and ran through Hyde Park and Woodhouse Moor towards the city centre before doubling back and going through Headingley and West Park on the Otley Road, beyond the ring road, towards Adel. They then ran north east towards Eccup, before rejoining Otley Road near Bramhope. The route continued to Otley, via Arthington and Pool in Wharfedale. Runners then hit the 17-mile mark in Otley, before returning for the last nine miles along the Leeds and Otley Road back to the stadium. The sun shone from start to finish making for tough conditions for running and with the half not starting until 10 am – an hour behind the marathon – conditions were even more so.
Eccleshill Road Runners were out in force today all around the course in differing capacities; two members taking on the full marathon; Marc Steele (4:06:33) & Annie Kisluk (5:23:03); John Turner (2:31:51) taking on the half, also Megan Weldon (time tbc) completing a leg of the marathon as part of a relay team. A huge well done also to our team members who gave up their time to marshal the race and those who loaned their support along the route, true team spirit at it’s best!
