Sean Dyche has led the praise for 'inspirational' Jack Dowling after the Everton Senior Team fitness coach completed his amazing challenge of running 26 marathons in 26 weeks in support of his late brother, Tom, and Macmillan Cancer Support.
Jack set himself the feat of running a marathon of marathons after Tom was diagnosed with cancer. It quickly became known as Project 26:26.
As Jack crossed the 2024 London Marathon finish line on Sunday, shortly before his beloved Everton's 2-0 home win over Nottingham Forest, he had run the equivalent distance of Goodison Park to Berlin since starting the venture last year.
Tom sadly passed away at the end of March and the thoughts of everyone at Everton and MacMillan continue to be with Jack, his family and all of Tom’s friends.
After Jack's phonomenal accomplishment, Dyche saluted his amazing work and fundraising efforts.
He said: "Everyone at the Club is hugely proud of Jack on his fantastic achievement to complete 26 marathons.
"We know how much this has meant to him and his family in honour of his brother Tom, and Jack’s amazing efforts have helped raise thousands of pounds for charity.
"Hopefully our win today provided an extra boost as Jack takes a well-earned rest after a brilliant and inspirational feat."
26/26 ✅
— Project26:26 (@project26_26) April 21, 2024
What an incredible journey it’s been, what incredible support from so many people all along the way.
Thank you. All of you. #LondonMarathon #fortom #project2626 pic.twitter.com/d183QN4rW9
Nicole Mcilveen, senior fundraising manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, added: "I am so proud of Jack and honoured that he chose to support Macmillan.
"The money raised from Jack’s marathon of marathons will help us continue our work in ensuring people with cancer get the vital support they need right now. We are almost entirely funded through donations from our supporters, and we can only be there for people thanks the efforts of fundraisers like Jack.
"At times it has been tough watching Jack over the past 26 weeks as he has battled injury and grief, but it has mostly been inspiring. Witnessing the community that Jack and his family and friends have created, as well as the people he has supported, encouraged and brought strength to during this challenge has been a joy.”
The challenge may be complete, but donations are still gratefully received. Jack’s fundraising page is available on JustGiving and via Instagram @project26.26 or his dedicated website project2626.info.
You can also text PROJECT2626 to 70550 to make a single £5 donation.
