Two Whitehaven schoolboys have set out on a challenge to raise as much money as possible as they embark on an enduring challenge this weekend.
Preston Meloy (12) and Ben Pearce (14) both from Whitehaven have been inspired by Rob Burrow’s story which has been shared across TV and the media in the last twelve months.
In December 2019, Rob Burrow was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) at the age of just 37. Rob has three children under the age of eight and is battling hard to raise awareness and support fundraising activities to aid research into MND.
Both boys play rugby for their local rugby team Hensingham RLFC and their school's team St Benedict’s RUFC, they both felt the rugby community is one that sticks together and helps each other out. Preston and Ben have been training for and running a half marathon this Saturday, the 12th of June around Whitehaven,
Preston and Ben said they are very much looking forward to the challenge, Preston said: “I watched the TV documentary with Rob Burrow, which detailed his story, and it was quite an emotional watch, about how such a strong rugby player can go through what Rob has experienced. This inspired me and my good friend, Ben, to run a half marathon for the charity which supports Motor Neurone Disease. I’m both excited and raring to go tomorrow.”
Amie Meloy, Preston’s mum who is helping to arrange the event added: “The boys are very motivated to support the MND cause as they feel the rugby league community is one that sticks together. Even though both boys support different teams, Wigan Warriors for Preston and Leeds Rhinos for Ben, they are joining forces for the greater good. A half marathon is a very big distance for boys of their age and it will take some doing. We are grateful for all the support from our local community and the rugby stars who have shown their support.”
You can support the boys by visiting www.justgiving.com/fundraising/amie-meloy1