Football and Rugby Unite for MND Walking Challenge

March of the Day III to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease

Sports fans and communities across the North of England are set to take part in March of the Day III, a six-day walking challenge aimed at raising awareness and funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) charities. The event will cover 340 miles and visit 44 football and rugby league grounds between 1st and 6th June 2026.

Details of the Challenge

The third annual March of the Day will see participants walking from Liverpool to Stockport County, before continuing to the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds. The route includes stops at numerous sporting venues, reflecting the close connection between the challenge and the football and rugby league communities.

Tributes and Participants

During the walk, participants will pay tribute to notable sporting figures affected by MND, including the late Rob Burrow CBE, Stephen Darby, and Marcus Stewart. Previous events have attracted over 800 people, including former professional footballers and rugby league players, as well as individuals living with MND.

This year, organisers hope to increase participation to more than 1,000 people, with around 100 ex-footballers and rugby league players expected to join the challenge.

Previous Fundraising Success

Since its inception in 2023, the March of the Day events have collectively raised over £400,000 for MND charities. The funds support research, care, and services for those affected by the disease.

About Motor Neurone Disease

• Motor Neurone Disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects the nerves controlling muscles.
• It leads to muscle weakness, loss of mobility, and difficulties with speech, swallowing, and breathing.
• There is currently no cure, and available treatments focus on symptom management and improving quality of life.

The March of the Day III event highlights the ongoing commitment of sports communities in the North of England to support those affected by MND through fundraising and awareness activities.

For more information, visit the Leeds Hospitals Charity website.