Former professional rugby player David 'Jacko' Jackson is visiting Yorkshire this week as he attempts to break a world record by running 100 ultramarathons in 100 consecutive days. The challenge, titled 'Mission IN-possible', aims to raise £1 million for brain injury charities Headway UK and Head for Change.
Jackson will arrive in Harrogate on June 30 and Leeds on July 4, inviting local residents to join him. Each daily run covers 50km, and completing the full 100 days will break the current men's world record of 80 consecutive ultramarathons.
Personal Mission Born from Tragedy
The cause is deeply personal for Jackson, whose professional rugby career was abruptly ended by a traumatic brain injury in 2013. His recovery was uncertain, and normal life often felt impossible. Running and breathwork became vital tools that helped him rebuild both body and mind. He is acutely aware that not everyone affected by brain injury has the same access to recovery, rehabilitation, or long-term support.
Jackson said: 'Everyone thinks this challenge is impossible. But I believe in IN-possible. That belief runs deep - and it's something my recovery taught me. I've experienced first-hand what recovery can look like - and I've also seen what happens when people don't get that chance. That's why this challenge is for Headway UK and Head for Change - and for the people whose lives are changed forever by brain injury.'
From First Marathon to 100 Ultramarathons
It took seven years after his injury for Jackson, who now works as a breath coach, to run his first-ever marathon. Now he is tackling 100 ultramarathons in 100 days and wants the community to join him. His route has been designed to bring people together across the country by visiting 25 locations and spending four days at each site. He completes the daily distance through 5km and 10km loops, meaning anyone can join for a walk or run.
He will be at The Nest at Spa Bottom Farm in Harrogate from June 30 to July 3, then move to Reyt Sauna at Farmer Copley's in Pontefract from July 4 to July 7.
Community Invited to Participate
Jackson said: 'This isn't just about supporting from the sidelines. It's about being involved; running your own IN-possible. Whether it's your first 5km or something much bigger - this is about believing in yourself again. And drawing on the support of each other, as I've experienced strength is multiplied when shared.'
Charities are cheering him on every step of the way. Helen Craig, fundraising manager at Headway UK, commented: 'Jacko has firsthand experience of the challenges that come from living with a brain injury. His determination to turn such a difficult period of his life into something so positive is truly inspiring. We're incredibly grateful to Jacko for taking on this extraordinary challenge. His efforts will help us to continue supporting people rebuilding their lives after brain injury, as well as raise crucial awareness of the reality of brain injury, all while bringing communities together across the UK. Everyone at Headway UK is incredibly proud of Jacko, who we'll be cheering on every step of the way!'
Alix Popham, founder of Head for Change, added: 'This is an unbelievable challenge, and full credit to Jacko for taking it on. Both charities are here to support people affected by brain injury, and that's what it's all about. We're really looking forward to joining him for the final couple of days around Newport alongside friends and family. Wishing him the very best of luck as he completes this incredible journey.'
Donate to the challenge at: https://givestar.io/gs/mission-in-possible-2-marathons-a-day-for-100-days. Follow Jacko's 'Mission IN-possible' on Instagram at @thebreathrunningcoach. Visit https://thebreathrunningcoach.com/mission-in-possible for GPS tracker of Jacko's location.
