Thousands unite to Run For Rob in 2025 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon

Thousands unite to Run For Rob in 2025 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon

The streets of Leeds were filled with pride, purpose, and powerful emotion today as over 12,000 runners took part in the 2025 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, in partnership with Clarion and the Leeds Half Marathon, in what has become one of the UK's most moving and unifying running events.

With crowds roaring and banners flying high with messages of strength and solidarity, runners of all ages and abilities turned out to “Run For Rob”—a heartfelt tribute to the late rugby league legend Rob Burrow CBE, whose courage in the face of Motor Neurone Disease continues to inspire the nation.

The full marathon, named in Rob’s honour, was more than just a race, it was a symbol of resilience and community spirit. Thousands wore “Run For Rob” shirts and bibs, many bearing the names of loved ones. The event was once again championed by Rob’s former teammates and close friends Kevin Sinfield and Jamie Jones-Buchanan, as well as wife, Lindsey Burrow.

Tom Charles claimed victory in the Marathon with a time of 02:28:14, Mohamed Abshir came in second in 02:29:29 and third, Joe Sagar in a time of 02:30:39. 

In the women’s category, Melissah Gibson triumphed with a time of 02:42:17. Kate Corcoran finished in a time of 02:57:44 and Ruth Sinclair took third place with a time of 03:04:20.

The men’s Half Marathon was won by Jack Cummings with a completion time of 01:08:35, followed by Ritchie Gardiner in 01:09:04 and third place was taken by Andrew Rolland in 01:11:16. 

And for the women’s Half Marathon, Katie Brown crossed the line in 01:19:33, Stella Cross second with a time of 01:21:34 and in third place Eleanor Warren in 01:22:48. 

Among those taking place, Marathon wheelchair participants Callum Hall completed the course in 02:04:35. With Mark Godman-Sinclair completing the course in 01:48:37 in a hand crank wheelchair. 

The marathon and half marathon, organised by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All in partnership with Leeds City Council, brought an electric day of running to the city, with both events starting and finishing at the iconic AMT Headingley Stadium.

The action kicked off at 9:00am with the start of the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, in partnership with Clarion, followed shortly by the Leeds Half Marathon at 10am - both saw participates embark on their journeys just outside of the AMT Headingley Stadium on St. Michaels Lane, before reaching victory on the pitch. Runners were treated to a scenic and challenging route that weaved through the heart of Leeds, out into the stunning Yorkshire countryside and back – passing through vibrant communities who turned out in force to cheer them on every step of the way, as well as conquering what the event is known for, the Otley Chevin climb.

A key highlight of the day was the incredible show of support from the people of Leeds, who lined the streets in a carnival atmosphere, celebrating every runner and honouring the memory of Rob Burrow. Since its launch in 2022, the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon has become one of the region’s most iconic sporting and fundraising events – and 2025 proved to be no exception.

The Leeds Marathon Relay bolstered the day as a new addition for 2025. The format saw teams of 7 each take on a leg of the 26.2-mile distance, giving those who wouldn’t usually consider a marathon the opportunity to participate.

In the lead-up to Sunday’s race, the city came together for a special moment on Saturday at the MND-Mile, held in partnership with Leeds Beckett University. A one-mile accessible course around the Leeds Beckett Headingley Campus saw over 300 participants walk, wheel or run as the sun shone down. Held in support of the MND community, the MND Mile was open to all ages and abilities and saw a number of charities hold activations, as well as sports activities hosted by Beckett.

While the marathon and half marathon saw some incredible athletic performances, the heart of the event lay in the fundraising. Thousands of runners took part to raise money for causes close to their hearts, with many supporting the event’s official partner charities: Leeds Hospitals Charity, MND Association, 4ED MND, Alzheimer’s Society, Candlelighters, Happy Days Children’s Charity, Leeds Rhinos Foundation, St Gemma’s Hospice, Leeds North and West Foodbank, My Name’s Doddie Foundation, Stand Against MND and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal.

The fundraising total is expected to make a life-changing impact across the region.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, commented, “What an incredible day for Leeds. The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon has become a defining moment in the UK’s running calendar and it’s not just because of the scale, but because of the heart and because of the communities formed and involved. From the first runner to the last, the energy, emotion and community spirit was amazing. This event is about so much more than running – it’s about celebrating Rob’s legacy, supporting others, and bringing the city together. A huge thank you to every runner, volunteer, spectator, and supporter who made today so special. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.”

Entries for the 2026 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon are now open, with a limited-time discounted rate available for early sign-ups. Those looking to participate in the Leeds Half Marathon can register their interest.

Whether you're chasing a PB, fundraising for a cause close to your heart, or simply want to be part of something special – now is the time to get involved.

To register or for more information, visit: www.runforall.com