City encourages planning ahead as thousands prepare to run for charity and honour rugby legend

Leeds is set to host the second annual Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon on Sunday, May 12, amidst a major traffic reorganization to ensure the safety and smooth running of the event. This year’s marathon, expected to attract thousands of participants, will once again raise critical funds for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association and support the construction of the Rob Burrow Centre for MND.

Organized by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All, in collaboration with Leeds City Council, the event is a significant occasion not just for its sporting challenge but also for its community spirit and charitable impact. The inaugural marathon was noted for its celebratory atmosphere, as spectators lined the 26.2-mile course to cheer on runners.

As the race day approaches, Leeds City Council and Run For All have rolled out an extensive communication plan to ensure residents and businesses along the route are well-informed about the traffic alterations. This includes emails and letter drops detailing the road closures and other traffic measures set for the day.

The marathon and the concurrent Leeds Half Marathon are anticipated to draw about 14,000 entrants. Both events will start and finish at AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium, covering areas such as Woodhouse Moor, Adel, Lawnswood, Bramhope, Pool in Wharfedale, and Otley.

Specific road closures include St Michael’s Lane in Headingley, which will shut down to vehicles from 4 am on May 12. North Lane and Cardigan Road will follow, closing at 6 am. Additional closures in Adel, Lawnswood, and Bramhope will commence from 8:30 am, with further adjustments in Pool in Wharfedale and Otley beginning at 9 am. Roads will reopen on a rolling basis as safety permits throughout the day.

To minimize the impact on local traffic and support attendees, special park and ride services, as well as a park and stride option from Cinder Moor, have been arranged. These services aim to ease congestion and enhance the experience for both participants and spectators.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture, and education, highlighted the dual success of the event in terms of community spirit and fundraising. “Last year’s marathon not only showcased the best of Leeds but also supported vital causes that touch many lives,” he stated. Pryor, who participated in last year’s marathon, expressed his eagerness to experience the uplifting atmosphere once again.

The marathon honours Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with MND in 2019. His advocacy work, alongside the fundraising efforts of his friend and former teammate Kevin Sinfield, has significantly advanced the cause. Both figures remain central to the event, with Sinfield running again and Burrow set to start the marathon.

The event is not just a testament to the city’s athletic spirit but also a beacon of hope and support for the MND community, further bolstered by Leeds’ strong tradition of charitable involvement and community solidarity