The 2024 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon was nothing short of extraordinary with over 14,000 runners taking part and enjoying the carnival atmosphere that was abundant throughout the city's streets. From choirs to brass bands to locals out with hose pipes, the community of Leeds proved why Leeds is so special.

It wasn't just about completing a race, it was about coming together as a community to support a cause close to their hearts. With the theme of 'Running for a mate with a mate', participants each ran for their own reason, but with one common goal, to make a significant difference to others.

In two hugely emotional moments in the day, Rob Burrow CBE welcomed home his wife Lindsey, who ran the half marathon, followed shortly afterwards by his closest friend Kevin Sinfield CBE, inside the the world-renowned AMT Headingley Stadium. Sinfield was joined on the start line by former Rhinos team-mates, including Jamie Jones Buchanan MBE, Barrie McDermott, Jamie Peacock MBE and Gary Mercer.

Opening the doors to mass participation running in its inaugural year, this year’s marathon continued to welcome participants of all abilities, including a field of nearly 50% first time marathon runners. Amongst those taking part was Ian Flatt who was diagnosed with MND in 2019.

The first male across the finish line of the marathon was Joe Sagar in a time of 2:25:42. Scott Harrington took second place in 2:31:37, closely followed by George Ravenhall in 2:32:20. First female across the finish line of the marathon was Melissah Gibson in a time of 2:45:16, followed by Charlotte Knowles who took second place in 2:55:01, with Kate Corcorann in third place clocking 3:05:06.

The first male across the finish line of the half marathon was Jack Kelly in a time of 1:11:42, followed by former GB athlete Tom Lancashire in 1:14:57 and Ryan Llewellyn in third place in a time of 1:15:19. The first female home in the half marathon was Faye Kirkby in a time of 1:27:47, followed by Sophie Markwick in 1:23:15 and Stella Cross in third place in 1:24:30.

Honouring Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow and inspired by Kevin Sinfield’s countless running challenges over recent years in support of his friend and ex-team mate, the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon is a fitting tribute to the city that launched Rob’s career and which he calls home.

Diagnosed with MND in December 2019, Rob and his family have continuously campaigned to raise awareness and funds to support everyone impacted by MND. Rob’s latest goal is to realise the dream of a new MND Care Centre in Leeds that will bear his name and support people living with MND and their families. The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon are set to contribute to making this dream a reality.

Organised by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All in partnership with Leeds City Council, the marathon will return for its third edition in 2025 on Sunday 11 May. A spokesperson said: "It’s set to be another epic day as we come together to honour Rob and to support the MND community. So why not, sign up today. If you'd like to know more, visit the Run For All website.

Image: Run For All