In the world of Rugby League, few names shine as brightly as Rob Burrow.
An integral part of the Leeds Rhinos for over a decade, Burrow’s diminutive stature was no hindrance to his on-field prowess, carving a successful career that endeared him to fans across the globe.
However, his biggest challenge was yet to come.
In 2019, he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a devastating illness that affects the nervous system.
Displaying characteristic strength and resilience, he chose to face this adversity head-on, and his determination ignited a fire in the hearts of many.
Our team from ATS – David Crosby, Ross Andrew, and Kerry Crosby – were inspired to rise to their challenge: The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon.
It wasn’t just about pushing personal boundaries but honouring a sporting hero and contributing to a worthy cause.
My Name’5 Doddie Foundation
The team chose to run for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, a charity established by Doddie Weir OBE, a former international rugby player who, like Rob, was diagnosed with MND.
The foundation aims to raise funds for research into the causes and potential cures for MND while making grants to individuals suffering from MND to enable them to live as fulfilled a life as possible.
Through this marathon, they contributed to an overall fundraising effort of over £52,000.
The Day Itself
The marathon preparation started in January.
As regular runners, our team had experience in 5 and 10-km races, but this was the first time anyone ventured into a full marathon.
They began a training programme with a 10% weekly increase in running volume, eventually building up to 75km.
The race itself was an overwhelming spectacle.
The streets were filled with spectators, their cheers echoing through Headingley and North Glasgow.
The atmosphere was electric, charged with the spirit of honouring two great men – Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield.
The marathon, with its 675m of climbing, was demanding.
Still, our team completed it in a commendable 3 hours, 41 minutes, and a bit.
David’s Reflections
David Crosby and our MD, Jason Lister, both ardent Leeds Rhinos supporters, had a special connection to the event.
David shared, “We were Leeds Rhinos Season Ticket holders, and I will have been to over 100 home and away games in that time. To say that those two guys were amazing – is an understatement.”
He added, “The race was amazing. I knew it would be a significant event, but nothing prepared anyone for the number of people on the streets.”
“The noise was crazy, and you felt the day was special.”
Ultimately, the marathon was a fitting tribute to Rob Burrow and Doddie Weir, celebrating their tenacity, courage, and humanity.
David said,
“So good to be there. And it was incredible to see them come over the line, and pleased to have done my bit to help the cause.
We owe them both a lot for how they played rugby and for how they have been as humans.
There for each other.”
Our ATS team’s effort raised over £2400 for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which we hope will make a difference in the fight against MND.
This marathon was a testament to the human spirit, solidarity, and the power of sport to bring people together for a more significant cause.
