Rugby league legend Kevin Sinfield has announced his latest epic endurance effort to raise funds and awareness for motor neurone disease, continuing his inspirational mission in support of close friend and former Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow.
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The former Rhinos captain—now part of England Rugby Union’s coaching setup—will take on 7 in 7 – Together, a gruelling week-long challenge of seven ultra marathons in seven days, running across Great Britain and Ireland from December 1 to 7.
This year’s theme focuses on communities that often get overlooked by high-profile events, reminding those affected by MND that they are not forgotten. “There are some places that don’t get a lot of love,” said Sinfield. “But they matter—and they’re home to people who’ve become part of this journey with us.”
Route of Recognition
Kicking off in Bury St Edmunds, day one will end in Ipswich—home to Sinfield’s friend Marcus Stewart, who is living with MND. From there, the route will pass through Cork, Swansea, Sheffield, Cumbria and Dundee before finishing in Leeds, the city where Rob Burrow made his name and now calls home.
Each day will be broken into hourly 7km blocks, just like last year’s “Running Home for Christmas” effort, with Sinfield restarting the clock every 60 minutes. It’s a brutal test of stamina and spirit, but one the former England international welcomes. “It’s good for me,” he told BBC Breakfast. “In a strange way, it’s therapeutic.”
Driven by the Number 7
The challenge marks year six in Sinfield’s seven-year fundraising journey—paying tribute to Burrow’s iconic number 7 jersey. “We committed to seven annual challenges because seven means everything to us,” Sinfield said. “It’s the number Rob wore. It’s who he is.”
Supporting Six MND Charities
Proceeds will once again support six charities tackling motor neurone disease: the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity (supporting the Rob Burrow Centre), Irish MND Association, Darby Rimmer Foundation, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, and MND Scotland.
Reflecting on what’s driven him to keep going, Sinfield said: “There are so many powerful memories from each challenge—people waiting in villages, towns, cities to say thank you. That’s why we’ll keep showing up.”
Sinfield’s penultimate challenge promises to be another milestone in a journey defined by friendship, resilience, and unwavering purpose.
EDITORS PICKS:
The 10 greatest fly-halves in rugby history – ranked
From pinpoint kicks to split-second decisions under pressure, fly-halves are the players you trust when the game’s on the line. And over the years, we’ve seen some absolute icons wear the No.10 shirt — legends who’ve shaped teams, tournaments, and eras.
Here’s our rundown of the 10 fly-halves who redefined greatness and carved their names into rugby folklore.
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10 Greatest Fly-Halves in Rugby History [Ranked]
10. Beauden Barrett (New Zealand)
One of the most dynamic and versatile players in modern rugby, Barrett's speed, agility, and playmaking ability make him a standout. With two World Player of the Year awards to his name, Barrett’s ability to break defenses and his electric running game have made him a constant threat at both fly-half and fullback for the All Blacks.
9. Jonathan Davies (Wales)
A Welsh icon, Jonathan Davies was known for his exceptional playmaking skills, vision, and tactical kicking. He was a pivotal player during the 1980s and early '90s, representing both Wales and the British & Irish Lions. His ability to control a game with flair and intelligence made him one of the finest fly-halves of his generation.
8. Grant Fox (New Zealand)
Fox was instrumental in New Zealand’s 1987 World Cup win, known for his kicking precision and calm under pressure. He set the standard for tactical fly-half play.
7. Jonathan Sexton (Ireland)
Sexton has been one of the top playmakers in modern rugby, guiding Ireland to multiple Six Nations titles and playing a pivotal role in the 2018 Grand Slam victory. His tactical acumen and kicking accuracy have made him indispensable for Ireland.
6. Owen Farrell (England)
Known for his leadership and incredible consistency, Owen Farrell has been a vital figure for England and Saracens over the last decade. His accurate kicking and game management, combined with a tenacious defensive edge, have made him one of the most influential players of his era.
Farrell’s ability to handle pressure and his strong leadership have helped England to numerous Six Nations titles and a World Cup final appearance in 2019.
5. Handré Pollard (South Africa)
Pollard’s calm under pressure and precision with the boot make him one of the best fly-halves of the modern era. His crucial contributions to South Africa's 2019 World Cup triumph, including his exceptional game management and match-winning kicks, have solidified his place among the greats.
4. Michael Lynagh (Australia)
Lynagh was the architect behind Australia’s World Cup-winning side in 1991. Known for his pinpoint kicking and strategic brilliance, he led the Wallabies through a dominant era in international rugby.
3. Barry John (Wales)
The Welsh maestro, known as “The King,” was a player of exceptional flair and instinctive play in the 1970s. His performances, especially on the 1971 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, solidified his legendary status.
2. Dan Carter (New Zealand)
Arguably the best fly-half of the modern era, Carter's all-around game—flawless kicking, playmaking ability, and tactical awareness—helped the All Blacks dominate world rugby for over a decade. Carter played a key role in New Zealand's 2011 and 2015 World Cup victories.
1. Jonny Wilkinson (England)
A fly-half whose career will forever be associated with his match-winning drop goal in the 2003 World Cup final. Wilkinson’s kicking ability, work ethic, and clutch performances made him one of the most celebrated players in rugby history. His ability to perform under pressure and commitment to excellence have earned him the top spot on this list.
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 England one-cap wonders…
This quiz challenges you to identify 10 players who earned the rare distinction of making just one appearance for the England rugby team.
These "one-cap wonders" might have been on the brink of a promising international career, unlucky with competition in their position, or simply never got another chance after their debut.
Test your knowledge and see if you can remember these players who had their brief moment in the England jersey!
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