Thousands more lined the streets around the city to cheer on those running in the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, which set off from Headingley Stadium this morning (Sunday).
The new marathon takes inspiration from fundraising challenges undertaken by Rob’s former teammate and friend Kevin Sinfield, who has worked alongside Rob and his family to raise awareness and funds to support those affected by the condition, with his various marathon challenges helping to raise millions.
There was a hugely emotional moment when Kevin picked up Rob from the specially-designed wheelchair that he had pushed him around the 26.2 mile course in and carried him over the finishing line.
Sunday’s event, plus the Leeds Half Marathon which also took place on Sunday, has already surpassed the £1m fundraising mark.
Below is a gallery of 30 pictures from an incredible day in Leeds:
9. Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrow get ready to start
Event organisers were inspired to stage the city’s first marathon in 20 years by Sinfield’s previous running challenges. Photo: steve ridin
10. Thousands take part
12,000 took part in the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon Photo: steve ridin
11. Huge demand
Sunday’s marathon was initially meant to have 7,777 places available but demand was such that organisers allowed more people in. Photo: Danny Lawson
12. Lindsey Burrow
Lindsey Burrow, the wife of Rob Burrow, was taking part in her first marathon Photo: Danny Lawson