Rugby league legend Kevin Sinfield has thrown his support behind fellow endurance fundraiser Gary McKee.
Gary is entering the final stages of his 100toLDN challenge in aid of Hospice at Home West Cumbria.
Gary, known as Cumbria’s Marathon Man, is running 100 marathons on 100 consecutive days, finishing with the 2026 London Marathon later this month, where he will complete the final 26.2 miles alongside his 18-year-old son, Beau.
Gary is on Day 83 today, Thursday April 9, of his challenge and has already raised over £47,000 towards his £100,000 target, bringing his total fundraising for Hospice at Home West Cumbria to £1 million over the past five years.
Kevin, who has raised millions of pounds for motor neurone disease charities through a series of extraordinary endurance challenges in support of his former teammate Rob Burrow CBE, shared a personal message of encouragement to Gary as he continues his latest feat.
He said: “Keep going, Gary. Everybody’s right behind you and so very proud of what you’re doing.
“I think you’ve done over 80 marathons to date, mate, which sounds absolutely bonkers, saying it.
“I hope the sun is shining for you up in Cumbria. Keep going, bud. Stick at it, and keep smiling. Take care.”
Gary and Kevin have long been supporters of each other’s fundraising efforts, united by a shared commitment to raising awareness and vital funds for causes close to their hearts.
Gary joined Kevin on his recent 7-in-7 challenge across West Cumbria.
Gary, of Cleator Moor said: “It means a lot to have Kevin’s support. What he has achieved through his fundraising challenges has inspired so many people across the country, including me.
“There is a huge amount of respect between us because we both understand the physical and mental effort these challenges take, but more importantly, we understand why we do them.
“Hospice at Home West Cumbria provides incredible care and support to families across our community.
“Knowing the difference these funds make keeps me focused every day, and messages like this really do give you an extra lift when the legs are feeling heavy.”
Gary began the 100toLDN challenge on January 17, running 26.2 miles every day across West Cumbria, often joining local schools, community groups and running clubs along the way.
The challenge will culminate at the London Marathon, where Gary and Beau will cross the finish line together.
Hospice at Home West Cumbria provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care across the region, supporting individuals and families when they need it most.
To support Gary’s challenge or follow his progress, visit 100toLDN.com
