Rhino run honours rugby star Rob Burrow

Running events across the region will honour Rob Burrow this weekend

A seven-mile rhino-themed run will take place in Leeds in memory of Rob Burrow.

Former Leeds Rhinos star Burrow, who had lived with motor neurone disease (MND) since being diagnosed in late 2019, died on Sunday aged 41.

The run, organised by the Leeds Rhinos Foundation, will take place at 19:00 BST on Friday 7 June, in recognition of Burrow's shirt number at his former club.

A foundation spokesperson said it would "celebrate the life of a true rugby league legend and inspiration".

The route, which starts at Roundhay Park, has been mapped out to resemble a rhino shape on the fitness app Strava.

The free event is open to "everyone who has been touched by Rob Burrow’s story," the spokesperson added.

"Runners are encouraged to wear their Rob Burrow Marathon tops, replica jerseys or similar attire, creating a sea of blue and amber as we take to the streets of Leeds."

They said participants of all abilities were welcome, adding: "This event is about community, remembrance and celebrating Rob’s life."

Runners are asked to meet at the main Roundhay Park gates on Princes Avenue between 18:45 BST and 18:50.

Friday's route through Leeds has the shape of a rhino

Meanwhile, Parkrun events across West Yorkshire will pay tribute to Burrow this weekend.

Events in Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield taking place on Saturday are encouraging runners to wear Rhinos colours or any clothing related to Burrow or his fundraising work.

"Come along and show your support and love to this legend," said the organisers of Temple Newsam Parkrun.

Bramley Parkrun will begin at 09:07 BST as a mark of respect for Burrow.

Normally beginning at 09:00, Parkrun events take place every Saturday in locations across the world.

There are also plans to pay tribute to Burrow during Saturday's Challenge Cup final, with fans urged to chant "there’s only one Rob Burrow" in the seventh minute of the game, which will kick off at 15:07.

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