Full Breakdown
David “Jacko” Jackson’s 100-Day Ultramarathon Quest
8/31/2026, 9:15:53 PM
The 100-Day Ultramarathon Challenge
Former professional rugby player David “Jacko” Jackson, 44, is attempting to run 100 consecutive ultramarathons—each 50 km (about 30 mi)—over 100 days. He set off from his home in north Wales in May and plans to finish at Caernarfon Castle on Saturday (5 September). The route has taken him through Scotland and England, and more than 700 volunteers, ranging from eight-year-olds to people in their 80s, have run alongside him. Jackson has already used seven pairs of shoes.
From Rugby Pitch to Running Trail
Jackson’s rugby career ended abruptly in 2013 after a traumatic brain injury and a seizure on the training field. He endured months of fatigue, light sensitivity, and cognitive issues before recovering and becoming a strength-and-conditioning coach. The injury sparked his interest in breathing techniques, running, and the Japanese “marathon monks,” whose long-distance practices he admires. Initially aiming for two marathons a day, a leg injury on day 14 forced him to scale back to one ultramarathon per day.
Support and Logistics
Jackson’s wife, Catherine, serves as his physio, nutritionist, and logistics manager. Their camper van functions as a mobile kitchen and hydration hub, stocked with fluids essential during summer heatwaves. Post-it notes inside the van display motivational prompts such as “We choose our attitude” and “Greatest ever comeback.” Along the way, well-wishers have offered larger accommodation, cooked meals, and helped with washing. Jackson notes that the prolonged travel has “unplugged” the couple from society, which he finds “quite nice.”
Impact and Outlook
The run raises funds for brain-injury charities Headway and Head for Change, while also spotlighting the experiences of those living with head trauma. Jackson emphasizes that the “highlights have been the people” he meets each day. He has kept his beard unshaved throughout the challenge, a visual cue that has become a symbol of his progress.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I should be feeling tired now,” — The Guardian Jackson
