Kevin Sinfield ultramarathons - how much has Leeds Rhino star raised in honour of teammate Rob Burrow?

Former Leeds Rhinos player Kevin Sinfield received a standing ovation at Old Trafford as he completed his seventh ultra marathon in seven days to raise money for charities for motor neurone disease. Sinfield took up the challenge in honour of his former Leeds Rhinos teammate and pal Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with MND three years ago.

The former rugby league player set off from Murrayfield in Edinburgh last Sunday (November 13). He also passed through Melrose, Newcastle and York on his journey.

During his journey, Sinfield shared an emotional moment with friend Rob Burrow on Friday when he passed through Leeds at Headingley Stadium on his way to Bradford in the penultimate leg of the challenge. The dynamic duo made hundreds of appearances alongside each other at the ground as players and were cheered by hundreds of supporters on Friday as they embraced.

The 42-year old, known as Sir Kev to fans, arrived at an almost full capacity Old Trafford stadium and spoke to the crowd saying: "It’s all about friendship and the love for Rob. Everyone probably feels the same way about Rob as I do, he is an absolute champion."

Speaking during the Australia v Samoa game, an emotional Sinfield thanked the public for their support, saying: "There’s one thing for sure - that our country cares. It cares about people who need help and that MND community needs us, they need support, they need love and we’ve got to find a cure."

As well as completing the incredible physical challenge of running 300 miles, Sinfields original fundraising target set at £777,777 was smashed. The total raised by his fundraising efforts has reached £2 million. His original target was a nod to Rob Burrow who wore the number 7 shirt.

The funds will be split between five charities supporting people impacted by the debilitating condition,including the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, The Darby Rimmer MND Foundation, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and MND Scotland.

Last week, Leeds Building Society pledged £27,600 towards the appeal – the equivalent of £100 per mile. Describing it as an “incredible gesture”, Kevin said: “I know every penny will go to make a huge difference to those with the disease, but also, as importantly, help the vital research that is ongoing to halt the effects of the disease and eventually find a cure.”

The player has previously run seven marathons in seven days and 101 miles run in just 24 hours raising more than £5m for MND charities.Visit Kevin Sinfield Ultra 7 in 7 fundraising page to donate to his latest challenge.