Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin has been inspired to run the Leeds Half Marathon by RL legend Rob Burrow.

On Sunday May 14, the mayor will run the 13.1 mile route through Leeds to raise money for the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal and the West Yorkshire branch of Women’s Aid.

Inspired by rugby league legends Rob and best mate Kevin Sinfield, the mayor’s fundraising efforts will help to build a specialist Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Care Centre in Leeds to give people living with MND the best quality of life.

Mayor Brabin, who lives in Slaithwaite, said: “The Leeds Half Marathon is a fantastic occasion, and I can’t wait to take part.

“Following Rob’s MND diagnosis in 2019, both him and Kevin have worked tirelessly to raise money for those living with this cruel disease.

“Kevin has stood by Rob and his family’s side and the two friends have shown courage, strength and the meaning of true friendship which has inspired people across our region, and across the country.

“Their story has definitely inspired me – and in running this half marathon I want to help their cause by raising money for MND as well as the Women’s Aid West Yorkshire branch, another cause close to my heart.”

The mayor launched her campaign with Leeds Rhinos and the Leeds Rhinos Foundation where she also took part in a training session with members of the first team squad and had a tour of Headingley Stadium – where the half marathon starts and finishes.

The Leeds Half Marathon 2023 is taking place on the same day as the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. All money raised will be split between the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal and the West Yorkshire branch of Women’s Aid.

Donations can be made via the Mayor’s GoFundMe page