Sir Kevin Sinfield has said his campaign to find a cure for motor neurone disease is 'for life' as he approaches the end of his latest 7 in 7 ultramarathon challenge, which has so far raised £1.1m.
The 46-year-old took on tough climbs across the Pennines en route to his hometown Oldham, before heading to Salford and then Manchester. His latest challenge concludes on Saturday, when his son Jack will compete for Wakefield Trinity in the rugby league Grand Final against Warrington Wolves at Old Trafford.
Support and Surprises
Jack was given a big hug by his dad as he joined thousands who lined the route, in what Sir Kevin described as an 'awesome' show of support. The rugby league legend told the Mirror he was 'hurting' after completing 84 marathons in his £11m fundraising venture since 2020.
The Prince and Princess of Wales made a surprise visit to see him, which Sir Kevin said was a 'complete surprise' because his team kept it from him. "It was lovely," he said. "It was a big secret, I did not know that it was coming. It does give you a real boost."
Not the End
Sir Kevin told the Mirror that Saturday's finale will not be the end of his quest, which is in memory of his old friend Rob Burrow, the Leeds Rhinos legend who died in 2024 after living with the condition for more than four years.
"Because this is called the Grand Finale, the assumption has been made that's it," he said. "I have never said that, I have been consistent in the message that I am in this for life. What it looks like going forward, I don't know yet. But while I am still able to run and contribute and support, I will keep trying to do my little bit."
Family and Inspiration
Jack is looking forward to a dream end to the season as his dad delivers the match ball on Saturday night. He said: "I don't think even he could have imagined I would be playing in it. I've missed him a lot while he has been away."
Sir Kevin said he wants to be "Dad on Saturday" and that home is a sanctuary where Jack can get away from the day job. He also enjoyed a 'special moment' with former footballer Marcus Stewart, who lives in the same village and joined him at Huddersfield Town's home ground.
Marcus Stewart's wife Louise, 48, now a relentless campaigner for MND research, said: "There is an MND army and Kevin is spearheading that fight. I am emotional every time I see Kevin on TV, he was with a 10-year-old girl who has been diagnosed. When you have an illness where there is no treatment or cure, he gives hope."
Sir Kevin said his job is to get on the starting line and smile at all times. "It is tough, it hurts, but it is important that people see why we are doing this," he said.
