PA MediaThe Prince of Wales has offered his “huge congratulations” to Kevin Sinfield as he closes in on finishing his latest ultramarathon challenge, raising money for motor neurone disease treatment and research.
In a message posted on social media, Prince William described the former rugby league star’s bid to run seven ultramarathons in seven days as “incredible”.
He praised Sinfield’s commitment to his late friend and ex-Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow and everyone affected by motor neurone disease (MND) as “truly inspiring”.
Sinfield will run from North Yorkshire to Leeds on the final day of his challenge on Sunday, finishing at the Rhinos’ AMT Headingley Stadium.
Sinfield embarked on the 7 in 7: Together challenge on Monday in what was his sixth annual fundraiser to support the MND community after Burrow was diagnosed with the incurable and life-limiting disease in 2019.
He has already raised more than £10m towards research into the disease and support for families affected by it – and has passed his target of raising £777,777 for MND charities with this year’s challenge.
As of Saturday afternoon, Sinfield had raised more than £1m, which will be donated to six MND charities.
The 7 in 7 challenges derive their name from Burrow’s old shirt number
Prince William wrote: “Kevin, huge congratulations on nearing the finish of your incredible 7 in 7 challenge!
“Your commitment to Rob and everyone affected by MND is truly inspiring.
“Thank you for shining a light on the need for research and support, and for the hope and example you bring. Look after those knees! W.”
Getty ImagesWilliam made both Sinfield and Burrow Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBEs) at the Rhinos’ Headingley Stadium in January 2024.
Burrow died five months later, at the age of 41, following a four-and-a-half-year battle with MND during which he devoted himself to raising awareness and money for treatment and research.
The prince promised to return to open the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, and did so last month, joining Sinfield and Burrow’s three children – Macy, Maya and Jackson – and his widow Lindsey.
Sinfield, currently a coach with the England rugby union team, famously carried Burrow over the finish line at the Leeds Marathon in 2023.
He is expected the complete the final day of his challenge on Sunday afternoon, joining runners taking part in the Santa Dash to cross the finish line.