Going the Distance

Jacky Hunt-Broersma is an elite ultrarunner, cancer survivor, author, motivational speaker, and mother who continues to redefine the limits of endurance on one blade. Born in South Africa and now living in Arizona, Jacky lost her left leg below the knee after a cancer diagnosis in her twenties. Rather than letting it slow her down, she found her stride by taking up running in 2016.

Since then, she’s gone from a beginner runner to a global icon in adaptive sports. Jacky made history as the first amputee to complete the grueling six-day, 120-mile TransRockies Run in Colorado’s high-altitude terrain. She also set a new benchmark in 2022 by running 104 marathons in 104 consecutive days, raising awareness and funds to help other amputees access running blades. Along the way, she tackled iconic events like the Boston Marathon and the Race Across the USA, all while balancing life as a working mom.

Beyond the racecourse, Jacky uses her platform to encourage others to challenge their limits. She authored a children’s book, Emma’s Brave Steps, to help young readers embrace resilience and regularly speaks to audiences about grit, identity, and overcoming adversity. Whether she’s setting world records or exploring mountain trails, Jacky brings passion, purpose, and possibility to everything she does.

Jacky runs with the Fillauer Obsidian running blade and uses the AllPro foot for her everyday leg, which she relies on for its durability, responsiveness, and adaptability across tough terrain. Her story continues to inspire athletes around the world, reminding us all that with determination and the right tools, we’re capable of doing hard things

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