A track record of living life to the full
80 years old and still going strong.
Oom Swannie Swanepoel (of Gert) is 'n ware legende onder hardlopers. Hierdie grootmeester het al talle marathons, half-marathons en ander kompetisies regoor Suid-Afrika voltooi, insluitend die Safari Half-Marathon. Een jaar het hy selfs drie marathons kafgedraf.
In the 24-year history of the Safari Half Marathon Oom Swannie has only missed two events (and one just because he missed the entry cut-off) and he's determined to do the 2012 Safari Half Marathon- "As long as God keeps me fit." he says.
At an incredible 80 years old, this fit, delightful man is a font of knowledge and interesting anecdotes about life, running and his long history in the field of education, as teacher, headmaster, inspector and coach of different sports to numerous pupils throughout the country.
Running, (besides his wife, family and beloved bull terrier) is his first love. "I started running seriously when I was 50 when a teacher friend and I decided to get fit. I still run today. In the morning I get up and go for a walk and in the afternoon I run - it keeps me in shape."
Sy fiksheid is te danke aan sy gesonde eetgewoontes - vleis en groente, en geen gemorskos. Sy selfdissipline was duidelik toe hy die heerlike tuisgebakte beskuit weerstaan wat sy vrou bedien het met die koffie. "Mens moet gedissiplineerd eet en oefen" sê hy.
In 2005, Oom Swannie completed his tenth Two Oceans marathon - just 18 months after he underwent a heart operation. He was awarded with his permanent number, 3000, and says that what got him through the ordeal was his doctor. "He encouraged me to run again and said that in time I would be racing again too - and that's exactly what I did to overcome my negative mindset post surgery and get back into competing again."
For those of us who need a little encouragement ourselves, he says the best way to start is by walking then working up to brisk walking, jogging and then the road is yours. But physical training is only half of it - you need a good attitude too. "I keep busy with church, seeing my four children and beautiful grandchildren and remaining active. Sport is a great way of being part of a community - you make friends, you get fit, you have support." He also has the support of his lovely wife, Miems, who herself swims in the South African masters and has completed hundreds of hikes such as the Whale Trail, the Otter Trail amongst a list too long to mention.
With a warm smile and a big heart he continues to run. And as I see it, there will be many marathons still to come.
