The city of Leeds is gearing up for a day filled with enthusiasm and community spirit as the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon approaches this Sunday, May 12.
In partnership with Clarion, this significant sporting and fundraising event is poised to draw thousands of participants, promising to be one of the most notable dates on the Leeds calendar. Following the resounding success of last year’s inaugural race, which was celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and community support, this year’s marathon is expected to replicate that excitement. Runners and spectators alike praised the electric vibe created by crowds along the 26.2-mile course.
Leeds residents are encouraged to show their support once again by lining the streets this weekend, helping to ensure the marathon remains a standout event that showcases the best of the city. Spectators at this year’s Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon will be treated to a lively musical backdrop as they cheer on the runners. Scheduled performances along the marathon route include the Leeds Pipe Band, Leeds Rock Choir, Garforth Brass Band, and Otley Ukulele Orchestra, ensuring a festive and energizing atmosphere.
Additionally, two dedicated spectator hubs will be set up to enhance the viewing experience. One will be located on Otley Road in Adel, approximately a mile from Holt Park’s Asda, and the other at Otley Market Place, providing prime spots for supporters to gather. The marathon, organized by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All in partnership with Leeds City Council, aims to raise significant funds for several charitable causes. Among these are the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association and a Leeds Hospitals Charity appeal dedicated to building a Rob Burrow Centre for MND, continuing the event’s tradition of supporting vital community initiatives.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture and education said:
“I’m so pleased that, after many months of preparation and planning, the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon is nearly here – it promises to be a wonderful occasion. Leeds has a well-deserved reputation as a passionate and knowledgeable sporting city, and it will be great to see people lining the streets and showing their support for the runners on Sunday.
“We’re incredibly grateful to all those involved with the organisation of the race, including the hundreds of volunteers who will be generously giving up their time. As someone who took part in last year’s marathon and who’ll be on the start line again on Sunday, I know how much this event means, both to the running community and the city as a whole.”
The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and accompanying Leeds Half Marathon are set to take place this Sunday, beginning and ending at the AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium. The marathon will follow a scenic circular route, starting at Woodhouse Moor, then extending to Adel, Lawnswood, Bramhope, Pool in Wharfedale, and Otley. The half marathon will share much of this route. Together, these events have attracted approximately 14,000 participants.
To accommodate the race, road closures will be implemented in phases across different areas. St Michael’s Lane in Headingley will be closed to vehicles starting at 4am, with North Lane and Cardigan Road following at 6am. Additional road closures will begin between 6am and 7.30am in parts of Headingley and Far Headingley, and further closures will take effect from 8.30am in Adel, Lawnswood, and Bramhope, and from 9am in Pool in Wharfedale and Otley.
Roads will reopen progressively throughout the day on a rolling basis as conditions allow. Detailed information on road closures, vehicle crossing points, and access details for specific areas can be accessed online at www.runforall.com The marathon will kick off at 9am, with the half marathon starting at 10am, promising a day full of activity and community spirit.
Those planning to attend the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon in Headingley, whether as participants or supporters, are encouraged to utilize park & ride and shuttle services operating from Elland Road, Stourton, and the city center. It is important to note that there will be no designated event parking available in Headingley itself.
The marathon honors Leeds Rhinos icon Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2019. Since his diagnosis, Burrow has been a prominent advocate for raising awareness about MND and improving care for those affected by the disease.
His close friend and former Rhinos teammate, Kevin Sinfield, has also contributed significantly to MND causes. Sinfield has raised millions through various endurance challenges, including participating in last year’s Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, demonstrating the strong community support and dedication to the cause.
Tristan Batley-Kyle, operations director at Run For All said:
“Run For All are honoured to be delivering the 2024 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon. We hope everyone taking part has a memorable and enjoyable race day experience with us.”
Run For All is a not-for-profit organization, established as part of the enduring legacy of Jane Tomlinson CBE, a courageous amateur athlete from Leeds. Despite battling incurable cancer, Tomlinson captured global attention by participating in a string of remarkable endurance events, inspiring many with her resilience and determination.
The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon support a number of partner charities, reflecting a strong commitment to various causes. These include the MND Association, the Rob Burrow Centre for MND Appeal, Candlelighters, Macmillan Cancer Support, St Gemma’s Hospice, Yorkshire Cancer Research, Alzheimer’s Society, the Leeds Rhinos Foundation, and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal.
The event proudly partners with Leeds-based law firm Clarion as its title sponsor, enhancing its impact and reach within the community.
