The concept of carrying a burden for others will take on a literal and symbolic meaning tomorrow, as military veteran and Oscar Mike Foundation representative Mark Jones prepares to attempt a Guinness World Record by running 100 miles in 24 hours while carrying a 40-pound rucksack.
For Jones, this test of strength, endurance, and resolve is not just a personal challenge—it’s a mission to support those who have sacrificed for their country. His world record attempt doubles as a fundraiser for the Oscar Mike Foundation’s “Carry the Weight” campaign, which helps empower and rehabilitate injured veterans through adaptive sports and community engagement.
“I’ve always had events on my whiteboard, and one day I go into my garage gym and there’s nothing on my whiteboard. Maybe it’s just time to do something for somebody else on this one,” Jones reflected, explaining how the idea was born.
Jones first conceived the idea three years ago but began intense six-month training earlier this year to turn it into reality. His routine included waking up at 3 a.m. for strength workouts, logging long-distance walks, and squeezing in additional training at night—all while managing work and family life.
“This backpack has become part of my body,” Jones said, referring to the 40-pound rucksack he will carry for the entire 24-hour journey. “It’s not going to be easy—it’s going to hurt—but it’s going to get done.”
The Oscar Mike Foundation, whose name derives from military phonetics meaning “On the Move,” holds special significance for Jones. “Everybody I’ve met from the organization—it’s just incredible. They represent what Oscar Mike truly means: to be on the move,” he shared.
While the physical challenge is immense, Jones said the hardest part has been the time spent away from his family during training. To stay close to his loved ones, he designed his record attempt to begin and end at his own garage gym, allowing him to see his children during breaks and share hugs before heading back out.
“I want to spend time with my boys, but I have to go out for eight hours,” Jones explained. “Running from home means I can see them, give them a high five, and keep going.”
Jones’ remarkable journey has already inspired widespread community support. Local residents, veterans, and supporters of the Oscar Mike Foundation are rallying behind him as he prepares for the monumental run.
“It’s been a different kind of journey,” Jones said. “But the only thing that would stop me would be me. Once I make it to that point, I think a big relief will just happen—and it’ll be a good day.”
As he takes his first steps toward the record, Mark Jones embodies resilience, dedication, and the unyielding spirit of service, proving that sometimes, the greatest victories are achieved not for oneself, but for others.
