Rugby league legend and fundraising hero Kevin Sinfield has embarked on his Extra Mile Challenge to support people living with MND, and has already more than doubled his sponsorship target.
After raising over £2.7million with his 7 in 7 Challenge – which saw Kevin completing seven marathons in as many days – to raise funds for the MND community in December 2020, he is now taking on his next ultra challenge.
The challenge will see him attempt to run from the home of Leicester Tigers – the Premiership club where Kevin recently became part of the coaching staff – to Leeds Rhinos’ Headingley Stadium in just 24 hours.
The hugely ambitious feat, inspired by Kevin’s friend and former Leeds team mate Rob Burrow, was planned to cover 100 miles – but the actual route totals 101 miles, with the extra mile giving the challenge its name, and the sentiment being he will always go the extra mile for his friend, who was diagnosed with MND in 2019.
Kevin set off on his challenge this morning, with a target of raising £100,000 – already his total stands at more than total that amount, with more donations being received continually.
Donations will be split equally between the Leeds Hospitals Charity appeal to build the Rob Burrow Centre for MND, supporting people living with MND and their families, and the MND Association, which funds multi-disciplinary care delivered at the centre and others across the country, as well as research into potential treatments for the disease.
“Undoubtedly, this will be the toughest challenge I have ever attempted, but I know it will mean so much to so many people if we meet our fundraising target,” said Kevin.
“I am sure there will be tough times as we pound the streets during the day and night, in cold November temperatures, but knowing the good we can achieve together will be a huge motivation for all involved.”
While COVID-19 restrictions meant crowds could not gather to support Kevin as he completed his 7 in 7 Challenge in December last year, many people are expected to watch him en route to Leeds today and overnight.
His timetable and route have been made available for anyone who wishes to show their support in person.
To sponsor Kevin in his Extra Mile Challenge, visit here
