Irish social media star to run marathon with no training and just a pair of Converse

Jack Ring, known on social media as Fleetwood Jack, is an Irish TikTok star hailing from Cork.

Jack left home five years ago to embark on a journey of adventure and travel, gaining an online following along the way.

Currently based in Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, he hosts his own surf camps.

Jeffreys Bay is famous amongst surfers across the world, best known for the Supertubes wave.

On the flip side, Jeffreys Bay highlights the huge contrast that can be witnessed across South Africa between the townships and the surrounding wealth, showing the reality of economic disparities and creating two distinct worlds. 

Jack crossed paths with Jimeal, founder of Jbay Surf House - a nonprofit organisation aiming to create a safe space and improve the lives of the children from the townships of Jeffreys Bay. 

Jimeal and Jack photographed by one of the Jbay Surf House kids, Henry Williams

At Jbay Surf House, Jimeal offers the children the chance to learn how to surf on the world famous waves.

Jack said, 'In the six months since my arrival, these remarkable kids have transformed into incredible shredders.'

'Now as these talented youngsters gear up for competitions, financial barriers threaten to keep their dreams at bay.'

The children have three upcoming competitions where the entry fee is €40 per child. There is also the cost for transport and surf supplies required to get there.

Wanting to make sure that every child, regardless of their background, has an equal opportunity, Jack has decided to take things into his own hands, 'Next week, I plan to run a marathon in my Converse, symbolising the uphill battle these kids face against financial divides.'

'Out of shape and unprepared, I'm ready to go the extra mile - literally!'

Jack and Jimeal have launched a GoFundMe page in order to raise funds for the children of Jeffreys Bay and have so far raised over €3,000.

Click HERE to check out the campaign and donate!

Photo below captured by one of the Jbay Surf House kids, Henry Williams.

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