Ex-Rugby Star David 'Jacko' Jackson to Run 200 Marathons for Brain Injury Charities

Former Rugby Professional Announces Monumental 200-Marathon Challenge for Brain Injury Charities

David 'Jacko' Jackson, a former professional rugby player residing near Caernarfon, has revealed his ambitious plans to undertake a world-record endurance feat this May. His initiative, dubbed 'Mission IN-possible', aims to generate £1 million in support for brain injury organisations Headway UK and Head for Change.

A Personal Journey of Recovery and Resilience

Commencing on 29 May, immediately following his 44th birthday, Jackson will embark on a gruelling schedule of running two marathons each day for 100 consecutive days. This extraordinary endeavour will cover a staggering distance exceeding 8,450 kilometres, equivalent to traversing from London to Los Angeles.

While the attempt is anticipated to surpass the existing men's world record, for Jackson, the mission holds profound personal significance. In 2013, a traumatic brain injury abruptly ended his rugby career, leaving him struggling with everyday activities.

"Everyone considers this challenge impossible," Jackson remarked. "However, I subscribe to the concept of IN-possible. That conviction is deeply ingrained—a lesson my recovery imparted."

Transforming Adversity into Inspiration

Following seven years of intensive rehabilitation, Jackson, who now works as a breath coach, completed his inaugural marathon. He views the forthcoming 200-marathon challenge as both a physical and spiritual voyage, drawing inspiration from Japan's renowned Marathon Monks, celebrated for their extreme distance running practices.

"This represents my personal spiritual journey," he explained. "My injury deprived me of something, yet recovery taught me to convert adversity into positivity."

Running and breathwork were pivotal in Jackson's recuperation, but he acknowledges that many individuals lack access to comparable support systems.

"I have witnessed the potential of recovery firsthand and observed the consequences when opportunities are absent," Jackson stated. "That is precisely why this challenge benefits Headway UK and Head for Change—and those whose lives are irrevocably altered by brain injury."

Community Engagement and Charitable Impact

The route will encompass 25 locations throughout the United Kingdom, with Jackson dedicating four days to each site, running 5km and 10km loops. These circuits enable community members to participate by walking or running alongside him, confronting their personal interpretations of the 'IN-possible'.

"This extends beyond mere sideline support; it involves active participation—pursuing your own IN-possible," Jackson emphasised. "Whether it's your initial 5km or a more substantial goal, it's about rediscovering self-belief and harnessing collective support, as I've learned that strength amplifies when shared."

Helen Craig of Headway UK commented: "Jacko possesses direct experience of the hurdles associated with living with a brain injury. His resolve to transform such a challenging phase into something profoundly positive is genuinely inspirational."

"We are immensely thankful to Jacko for undertaking this remarkable challenge. His endeavours will aid our ongoing support for individuals reconstructing their lives post-brain injury, while also elevating vital awareness about brain injury realities and uniting communities across the UK. Everyone at Headway UK is exceedingly proud of Jacko, and we will enthusiastically cheer him throughout every step!"

Alix Popham, founder of Head for Change, added: "This constitutes an unbelievable challenge, and full credit to Jacko for embracing it. Both charities exist to assist those impacted by brain injury, which encapsulates the essence of this mission. We eagerly anticipate joining him for the concluding days around Newport alongside friends and family. We extend our best wishes for success as he completes this incredible journey."