Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow shared an emotional moment with his family as he crossed the finish line of the Leeds 10K course with his children.
The rugby league favourite, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2019, was pushed around the course in his wheelchair by his kids. Burrow, 40, took part in the mini and junior run after the start of the main 10K race.
Children Macy, Maya and Jackson pushed their dad around the shorter juniors course for a Father's Day lap of honour before Rob's wife Lindsey celebrated with the family. Rob was given the number 1 bib, with his children wearing 2, 3 and 4.
Speaking after Sunday's race, Lindsey Burrow addressed the significance of it taking part on Father's Day. "To be here with the family today is just really special,” she told the Yorkshire Evening Post.
“He's such a family man so to be here today with the children, for us it's just about making special memories. I'm incredibly proud of Rob.
"The courage and resilience he has shown to go out and do that. It takes a special type of person,” Lindsey added, in reference to the work her husband has done campaigning and raising awareness of Motor Neurone Disease.
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The race came hot on the heels of the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon in the same city.. More than 10,000 people took part in the event, and a 2024 edition has already on the horizon.
The Leeds marathon has helped raise funds for the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal and the MND Association. A number of rugby league players signed up for the 2023 edition to show their support.
Burrow's friend and former team-mate Kevin Sinfield has been a big supporter of the 40-year-old while helping raise funds for causes close to his heart since his friend's diagnosis. Sinfield carried Burrow over the line in May's marathon, describing the race as "a brilliant day".
"It was an incredible day raising money, 12,500 people ran in Rob’s name... and the first time we’ve been able to do a big event together and was put together under the banner of friendship, and it was a brilliant day," Sinfield said.
"The Marathon was one of the most important and special events I’ve done and meant so many things to so many people," Burrow added.
"But for me, it was about friendship and crossing the finish line with my mate Kev will live with me forever and it created a platform to raise funds and awareness for MND charities, and I hope that the next one is as memorable."
