Local doc conquers London Marathon

Beyers Park resident Dr Johan Meyer is proud to have participated in the 44th London Marathon, where he won a finisher medal upon completing the 42km course.

The London Marathon is one of the most popular marathons in the world, and this year’s edition attracted more than 50 000 runners who took on the streets of the capital on April 21.

The 47-year-old homeopath, who is also a director atParkdene’s School of Transformation, completed the race in 02:51:43.

He said, although he had hoped to cross the finish line in 02:45:00, he is really thrilled with his performance.

Meyer described accomplishing this astonishing physical feat as an amazing experience, adding that he had never experienced such a number of supporters lining the entire course.

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The doctor pointed out that at around 28km in he passed a cheering crowd of South Africans. Their cheers and screams fuelled him to pick up his pace.

“It was my first experience of the London Marathon and I feel truly privileged that I could participate,” said Meyer.

He is also grateful for a training schedule that left him in good health and without injury during the16 weeks he trained.

Asked if he would take on a similar challenge again, he said: “Yes”.

With the London Marathon now crossed off his list, Meyer plans to cross off the next major marathons – New York, Boston, Chicago, Berlin and Tokyo.

In an effort to support Place of Purpose, an institution for young adults with intellectual disabilities, he will be participating in the upcoming Comrades Marathon, where he hopes to raise up to R50 000 for the organisation.

Place of Purpose is a NPO that provides support to intellectually disabled and learning challenged young adults aged 16 and older.

To support Dr Johan in his efforts to raise money for them, go to https://www.givengain.com/project/johan-raising-funds-for-place-of-purpose-76322

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