Key details you're going to need for the Leeds Rob Burrow races

Thousands of runners will take to the streets on Sunday, May 10, for the high-profile race, organised by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All in partnership with Leeds City Council.

Now in its fourth year, the marathon has developed a reputation not just for fundraising success but for the electric atmosphere created by spectators lining the 26.2-mile route. Residents are being urged to once again turn out in force to cheer on participants and showcase Leeds at its vibrant best.

Those unsure where to watch are being encouraged to head to two designated “cheer point” hubs at Otley Road in Adel and Otley Market Place. Along the route, live music from performers including Garforth Brass, Roadblock Sound System and Leeds Saxophone Quartet will add to the celebratory mood.

A Leeds City Council spokesperson said the event had become “a wonderful advert for the city” since it launched in 2023.

“One of the standout features each year has been the electric on-course atmosphere created by spectators and it would be great to have this repeated on Sunday,” they said.

They also urged people to check road closures and travel arrangements in advance.

“These measures are needed to ensure the best possible experience for athletes and spectators while mitigating the impact on residents, visitors and businesses. We thank local communities in advance for their patience and understanding.”

Key race details

The marathon and companion Leeds Half Marathon, which together have attracted more than 15,000 entrants, will both start and finish at AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium.

Runners will follow a circular route beginning around Woodhouse Moor before heading out towards Lawnswood, Bramhope, Pool in Wharfedale and Otley.

The marathon starts at 9am, with the half marathon following at 10am.

A series of road closures will be in place throughout Sunday morning:

• In Headingley, closures on roads including St Michael’s Lane, Newport View and Cardigan Road begin from 4am and 6am;
• Additional closures follow from 7.30am in surrounding streets;
• The A660 between Headingley and Pool Bank New Road will close between 8am and 8.30am;
• Further restrictions will be introduced in Pool in Wharfedale and Otley from 9am.

Roads will reopen on a rolling basis as soon as it is safe, with emergency access maintained at all times.

Travel and access

Spectators travelling to Headingley are encouraged to use park-and-ride services from Elland Road and Stourton, which must be booked in advance. Shuttle buses from the city centre will also operate on a pre-booked basis.

There will be no dedicated event parking in Headingley.

Inside the stadium, where runners will cross the finish line on the pitch, spectator tickets have sold out. Attendees are reminded that bags larger than A4 size will not be permitted.

Fundraising and legacy

The marathon honours Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2019 and went on to raise significant awareness of the condition.

Funds raised from the event will support the MND Association and Leeds Hospitals Charity, along with partner charities including the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Candlelighters, Leeds North & West Foodbank, Macmillan Cancer Support and St Gemma’s Hospice.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, operations director at Run For All, said organisers were looking forward to another memorable weekend.

“We encourage participants and spectators to familiarise themselves with key event information, including timings and road closures,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to another brilliant weekend for the city and to continuing our collective fundraising efforts.”

Full weekend programme

As well as the marathon and half marathon, Sunday will also feature the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon Relay, with teams of seven taking on different legs of the course.

Ahead of race day, Leeds Beckett University’s Headingley campus will host the MND Mile on Saturday, May 9 – an inclusive event open to people of all ages and abilities.