Former professional rugby player David 'Jacko' Jackson will visit the North East this week as part of his gruelling Guinness World Record attempt to complete 100 ultramarathons in 100 consecutive days. Jackson, who lives in North West Wales, aims to raise £1 million for brain injury charities Headway UK and Head for Change through his challenge 'Mission IN-possible'.
Challenge details and record attempt
Starting on May 29, Jackson runs an ultramarathon of 50 kilometres every day for 100 consecutive days. The attempt is expected to break the current men's world record for consecutive ultramarathons, which stands at 80 days. The route covers 25 locations across the UK, with Jackson spending four days at each site, completing the daily distance through 5km and 10km loops.
Personal story and motivation
Jackson's professional rugby career was abruptly ended in 2013 by a traumatic brain injury. He was Nottingham Rugby's most capped player and all-time top scorer, with 316 appearances and 102 tries. Recovery was uncertain, and normal life often felt impossible. Running and breathwork became key parts of his rehabilitation, but he recognises that not everyone affected by brain injury has the same access to recovery, rehabilitation, or long-term support.
“Everyone thinks this challenge is impossible,” Jackson said. “But I believe 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.”
Community involvement and North East visit
It took Jackson seven years after his brain injury to run his first marathon. Now working as a breath coach with his company Pro Breathwork, he encourages people to join him on the loops. The loop format allows anyone - runners, walkers, first-timers or experienced athletes - to participate for 5km or more. After covering 200km over four days in Edinburgh, Jackson will be at Studio6 Fitness on Stirling Close in Washington from Friday, June 26 to Monday, June 29.
“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,” Jackson added.
Charity support
Helen Craig, Fundraising Manager at Headway UK, said: “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!”
