Lewis Runs Rob Burrow Marathon in Memory of Dad Steven

Local boy Lewis is running the 2026 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon in memory of his dad, Steven, who unfortunately passed away from a sudden heart attack in in 2024 at the age of 59.

Lewis describes his dad as a hero to many, a consistent voice of reason and stability that impacted hundreds of lives.

"His spirit was encapsulated in his unwavering support of our beloved Leeds United - positive and optimistic, always. My promise to him, and one of my many reasons for running this marathon, is to carry that same positivity with me, and to keep going."

Although the family misses him greatly, these sad moments only remind them of how fortunate they were to have so many happy days with such a warm and selfless man.

"Grief is the most challenging process we have ever had to navigate as a family, but my message to anyone out there going through something similar is to nurture and look after yourself as much as you can. Exercise is such a great tool to look after our mental health, and I have found a lot of purpose and relief throughout my training for this marathon."

It is occasions such as the marathon that reminds us that we are not alone, as thousands of people gather to run for their own causes, battling their own struggles; this spirit of support and community is reflected in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon.

"I'm really excited to run my first marathon in my home city, and I know he will be there with me as he always is. I can remember watching Rob Burrow dance past opponents with determination when watching him on the TV with my Dad, who loved pretty much any sport that was on that day."

"I felt inspired by the incredible efforts of Sir Kevin Sinfield in dedication to Rob, and I'm hoping to channel that same love from my Dad to keep me going. As the song goes, 'we're gonna stay with you forever, at least until the world stops going round'."

Lewis will be fundraising for the Norfolk Tortoise Club, who will be building a new medical facility for tortoises in need of care.