It was a sight to behold as the 2021 Run with the Rhinos team joined up on Burley Road for their group photo on Sunday.
Adorned in their bright pink Oxen Sports shirts, the 175 runners and walkers taking part in the Run for All Leeds 10k in support of Leeds Rhinos Foundation could not be missed ahead of the race, with people of all different ages, backgrounds and running abilities coming together as part of one big Rhinos family.
This was the biggest ever turnout for a Run with the Rhinos event, knocking off the previous record of 167 set back in 2019 at the previous instalment of the Leeds 10k.
Amongst the participants were players from the Leeds Rhinos PDRL and LDRL teams, Leeds Rhinos staff and supporters, representatives from partnering corporate and charitable organisation and even club legend himself Jamie Jones-Buchanan. Together, they were united by the aim of completing the 10k to raise vital funds for Leeds Rhinos Foundation– helping the charity to continue delivering projects throughout the local community.
Having seen such a great response to this year’s event, Leeds Rhinos Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer Bob Bowman- who completed his own run in just over 46 minutes- was quick to praise the efforts of everyone involved.
“It’s now a few days on from Run with the Rhinos 2021 and I still can’t stop telling people how amazing the size, enthusiasm and energy of our team was at this year’s event,” said Bowman.
“We really stood out- not only down to what I think was our best designed running tops to date, but also because the spirit, camaraderie, support and diversity amongst the entire team was truly inspirational.
“Run with the Rhinos is one of our annual flagship events and helps considerably towards the crucial work we do in our city to improve lives and the involvement of so many fundraisers and volunteers has helped our charity immensely.
“I would like to say a big thank you for your continued support, keep on running and walking and we will hopefully see even more of you for Run with the Rhinos 2022 next July.”
Ben Berry, Run with the Rhinos Coordinator, added: “We’re extremely grateful to everyone who came along and took part in what was an incredible event, despite the challenges, cancellations and postponements over the last two years.
“Everyone’s generosity and kindness made the event special to be part of, and we cannot be thankful enough. As one event finishes, we can look forward the next one in 2022. Our entries will soon be available for next year, where we will be able to offer the increased benefits of a pre and post-race gathering once again.”
Finishing first out of the Run with the Rhinos team was Ian Slattery, who completed his run in a sensational 39m23s which placed him inside the top 60 overall finishers.
Winning the staff battle was Rugby League Development Officer Joe Sanderson, who just pipped out the Foundation’s Trustee Jamie Jones-Buchanan and CEO Bob Bowman.
There was also a superb turnout for the RWTR walking team, with great representation from the staff at New Wortley Community Centre and those connected to Community Integrated Care who support the charity’s Learning Disability Super League team amongst others.
To all those who took part in the Leeds 10k and represented the Run with the Rhinos team– THANK YOU.
You can still show your support by donating to our Run With The Rhinos 2021 team- CLICK HERE to visit their fundraising page.
For more information about how to get involved with Run with the Rhinos 2022, please contact ben.berry@leedsrhinosfoundation.org.
There are many other events where you can help Leeds Rhinos Foundation by fundraising to help us continue our work to change lives through sport. Click HERE to find out more.