In December 2019, rugby league legend Rob Burrow, CBE was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a progressive condition affecting the brain and spinal cord. Tragically, Rob passed away in June this year at the age of 41, leaving behind his wife and three children.

Rob’s legacy continues to inspire, not least through the incredible efforts of his former teammate and captain, Kevin Sinfield, who has raised millions for MNDA in Rob’s honour.

A Personal Connection

This October, Bartholomew School PE teacher, Mr Connaughton, ran the Abingdon Marathon in memory of Rob, raising funds for MNDA. Having attended both primary and secondary school with Kevin Sinfield, Mr Connaughton has seen firsthand the determination behind Kevin’s fundraising challenges, including his famous seven marathons in seven days in 2020, which he hoped to raise £777,777.  In fact, he raised over £2 million. The significance of the number ‘7’ is that this was the number on Rob’s rugby shirt during his glittering career alongside Sinfield for Leeds Rhinos.  

This December, Kevin is embarking on yet another challenge: ‘Running Home for Christmas’, which involves running seven ultra-marathons across seven regions in seven days. As part of this, Mr Connaughton has been invited to join the ‘Extra Mile’ section of Kevin’s journey.

Bartholomew’s Challenge: Running Home for Christmas

From Monday 2nd to Friday 6th December, Bartholomew School will undertake its own ‘Running Home for Christmas’ challenge. Students will run 7km over two PE lessons, individually or in pairs.

The route will follow a giant ‘7’ painted on the rugby field, with each lap measuring 700 metres. Students will complete five laps per lesson to meet the 7km goal.

Additional Activities

To build on the fundraising spirit, we’re also hosting:

• Year 7 Inter-Form Competitions: Lunchtime 7-a-side football and netball tournaments, with finals on Friday.
• Year 9 Leadership in Action: A group of Sports Leaders will manage the competitions and report on their outcomes.
• Good Luck Video: We’ll create a video message to send our support to Kevin and his team.

How to Get Involved

• Fundraising:  Students are invited to raise up to £7 in ‘sponsorship’ from family and friends, which can be donated through ParentPay.
• Spread the Word: Share your challenge with friends and family to encourage their support.
• Stay Updated: Follow Kevin’s efforts in the media, such as on BBC News.

Community Relationship Fundraiser for the MND Association, Carmen Brown said:

“We’re thrilled the students at Bartholomew School are getting involved in Kev’s Challenge – what they have planned sounds incredible!

“So many people have been inspired by Kevin to support the Association by taking part in their own 7 in 7 Challenges and we are so grateful for everything they are doing to help us.

“Every penny raised will help us to fund important research into motor neurone disease while offering the care and support that people living with this devastating disease need right now.

“We wish John and all the pupils the very best of luck for their challenges – we can’t wait to hear how they get on!”

We look forward to making this week a success, both for MNDA and as a celebration of Rob Burrow’s remarkable legacy. Together, we can make a difference.

To donate to Kevin Sinfield’s 7 in 7 Challenge visit www.donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/kevin-sinfield-and-teams-fundraising

If you’ve been inspired by Kevin and would like to take part in your own 7 in 7 Challenge you will find all the information you need at www.fundraising.mndassociation.org/event/7-in-7-challenge

For more information about MND and the MND Association please visit www.mndassociation.org

Registered Charity No 294354

 

 

Watch our Year 8 students taking part in the fundraising challenge by running or walking around the giant '7' on the school field.