Edenvale resident and avid runner, Des Robin,s will at the age of 85, be the oldest participant of this year’s Two Oceans Half Marathon on April 4.
Des started his running career at age 47 and has since competed in 11 Two Oceans Ultra Marathons and eight Two Oceans Half Marathons.
He has also been awarded his permanent race number 316 for the Two Oceans.
Des is also the proud owner of 13 other permanent numbers for various races.
A permanent number is given to a runner for completing the same marathon more than 10 times.
“I manage four runs per week,” Des said.
Along with running races on Saturdays and Sundays, Des also completes one timed run each week as well as his time trials for Edenvale running club Fit 2000.
“Fit 2000 is a sociable but small club. We do time trials every Thursday evening and we often enjoy a hot dog and beer afterwards,” Des said.
The NEWS previously featured Des after he was awarded the Around the World trophy for 2014.
Des has completed numerous 42,2 kilometre races and 90, 50 plus kilometre races.
He has also completed 12 Comrades Marathons in less than eleven hours.
“Sometimes runners do ask for advice and I do try to help. Typical questions such as pacing oneself, cramping and dealing with and preventing blisters,” Des said.
The Elma Park resident said he loves running in the fresh air and has made many friends along the way.
Collecting South African and German stamps is a favourite pastime for Des.
“My wife, Shirley has traveled with me for many years with me and even seconded me often during races and a few times when doing Comrades,” he said.
