Teenage fundraiser receives huge donation from American sports star

Marcus Skeet, 16, is taking on his first marathon today.

16-year-old Marcus Skeet posted thanking someone only known as "James" for donation £5,000.
Author: Hannah RichardsonPublished 7th Sep 2024
Last updated 7th Sep 2024

A teenager known as 'The Hull Boy' on X says he's in "utter disbelief" after receiving a huge donation from an American sports star.

16-year-old Marcus Skeet posted thanking someone only known as "James" for donation £5,000.

It wasn't until followers spotted it was actually NFL star JJ Watt who had made the donation.

JJ replied to Marcus on the social media platform to wish him the best for the marathon and said to "keep inspiring people, you never know how far your efforts may reach".

JJ Watt

Marcus is taking on his first marathon today in London to raise funds for mental health charity Mind.

On his donation page, Marcus has spoke about dealing with his own personal mental health struggles and losing a friend as well.

He'll be joined by Russ Cook - also knowns as the "hardest geezer" - after he was the first person to run the entire length of Africa .

So far, over £16,000 has been raised on Marcus' GoFundMe page.

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