Janine GriffithsLeeds is preparing to take on a supporting role once again as the countdown continues to this year’s Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, one of the city’s biggest sporting and fundraising events.
Thousands of runners are expected to take part when the marathon returns on Sunday 10 May, with organisers saying the city will once again be central to delivering a safe and successful event.
The marathon, organised by Run For All in partnership with Leeds City Council, is held in honour of former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2019 and went on to become a leading campaigner for better awareness and care for those affected.
Large crowds are expected to line the 26.2 mile route, which passes through a range of neighbourhoods and communities across Leeds and surrounding areas, creating what organisers describe as a strong atmosphere of public support for the runners.
The event will once again raise funds for a number of charities, including the MND Association and Leeds Hospitals Charity, alongside other organisations such as the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Candlelighters, Macmillan Cancer Support, Leeds North and West Foodbank, Leeds Rhinos Foundation, Happy Days Children’s Charity and St Gemma’s Hospice.
A relay event is also set to take place alongside the marathon, with teams of seven each completing different sections of the course.
In addition, Leeds Beckett University’s Headingley campus will host the MND Mile, an event designed to be accessible to participants of all ages and abilities.
Leeds City Council has said it is working closely with organisers and partners to help ensure the event runs safely and smoothly, while acknowledging that a number of temporary road closures will be required on the day.
Traffic and travel arrangements will be in place across parts of the route, with restrictions lifted on a rolling basis where possible as the event progresses.
Organisers have encouraged residents, visitors and businesses to plan ahead and check local travel information in advance of race day.
The marathon will begin and end at Headingley Stadium, with runners setting off in the morning and covering a route that extends into areas including Woodhouse Moor, Lawnswood, Bramhope, Pool in Wharfedale and Otley.
The event has grown into a major date in the city’s calendar, not only as a sporting challenge but also as a large-scale fundraising effort bringing together thousands of participants, volunteers and supporters.
Leeds City Council and Run For All say they are continuing to work with emergency services and partner organisations to minimise disruption while ensuring safety remains the priority.
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