Former Leeds Rhinos teammates Rob Burrows and Kevin Sinfield have received the Freedom of Leeds award for their motor neuron disease fundraising efforts.
Rob Burrows was diagnosed with MND in late 2019 after retiring from the sport and since the pair helped raise awareness and funds for the charity which included Sinfield’s latest achievement. seven ultra-marathons in seven days in which he raised £2.7.
Leeds City Council said former Leeds Rhino teammates had been chosen for the city’s highest civic honor for their: ‘courage, commitment and inspiring strength of character’
They also said the couple had “touched hearts around the world” during their fundraiser, reflecting “the best of Leeds”.
“Rob’s response to his diagnosis has been generally positive and selfless, with the past three years having seen him champion fundraising and awareness for everyone affected by the disease,” he said.
“Kevin, meanwhile, followed his old friend’s lead by embarking on a series of grueling endurance challenges that raised millions of pounds for MND-related causes.”
On January 11, 2023, the couple will be named the City’s Honorary Freeman in a ceremony at Leeds Civic Hall where their names will be added to a roll of honor etched into the building.
They will join an iconic list that includes Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Alan Bennett and members of the 1967-74 Leeds United squad.
Burrow said: “Having spent my entire adult life with the Leeds Rhinos family, it meant so much to me in my career to be able to bring joy to the people of Leeds with our success on the pitch.
“When you look at the distinguished list of previous recipients of this honor, it makes this recognition from the city even more remarkable and I am deeply honored to receive it, especially alongside Kevin, a man who continues to set an example for all of us follow.”
Sinfield said: “[he was] deeply honored and while it has been a joy to bring sporting success to our city on the pitch, the way the people of Leeds in particular have shown their love and support to my friend Rob Burrow and his family since his diagnosis from MND says a lot about what a wonderful city of Leeds is and I accept this award on behalf of all those people who have done so much for our community.
Read more: Kevin Sinfield crosses £1m mark after running 101 miles in 24 hours for MND Charity
Feature image credit: Leeds City Council Press Office
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