American teen’s Instagram challenge triggers record-breaking response and Thai adventure
The Instagram challenge launched by a 13 year old American boy has taken social media by storm and set a new record for ‘most likes’ on a comment on the platform. The challenge promised the boy would follow the advice from the most popular suggestion on his video post, detailing the information, Korn Chatikavanij, a former finance minister reported.
The Instagram user “reed_harrington23” uploaded a brief video clip about the challenge.
“Okay. When I hit 200,000 followers, I do whatever the top comment said on the video and post it.”
The video, posted on September 29, saw Reed Harrington, a seventh-grade student based in the United States, gather an impressive 1.5 million likes and more than 45,500 comments. The comments ranged from offers to cover his airfare to Thailand, offers to document his journey and even a personal photographer.
The most liked comment, however, came from user fiven9nekid who proposed an outrageous challenge.
“Fly to a small town in Thailand, get accepted by their people, learn the language, train Muay Thai for a year and a half, fight in a tournament, win the tournament, return to the USA and join the UFC, stay in shape & go undefeated in your weight class, retire and do an interview saying this comment was the reason you fought so hard.”
This comment alone attracted around 2.57 million likes, thus breaking Instagram’s record for the most liked comment. As a result, Harrington’s follower count jumped to over 329,000 followers.
Sticking to his promise, Harrington initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help fulfil this challenge. At the time of reporting, the campaign, labelled “A trip to Thailand for me and my dad” received more than US$7,200 (261,266 baht) from 587 separate donations. The campaign goal is set at US$15,000 (544,305 baht).
Among the donors, several expressed their support for Harrington’s mission.
“Keep on going. Keep on growing. You are an inspiration. Never give up and chase your dreams. Do what you like and always do good. Make this world a better place. You are the future.”
“Thailand will be a great experience for you, lil bro. Being immersed in a new culture and training Muay Thai will teach you not just a beautiful martial art but more about yourself as well. Keep running that mile every day! The consistency pays dividends and is what builds champions.”
In his response, former finance minister Korn made known Thailand should be prepared to welcome the teenager.
“This pleasant matter shows that Thailand is unique, charming and fascinating in the eyes of the international community. This viral stuff is public relations for the country that does not cost any money.”
With the GoFundMe campaign well underway, Harrington is now one step closer to kick-starting his Thai adventure, reported Bangkok Post.
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