Greg King hits 400 parkruns… And counting
Greg King tells his inspiring story as a 70-year-old runner who found new life through Parkruns in his neighborhood.
Greg King, a 70-year-old running enthusiast from Fourways, is on the cusp of a milestone – his 400th parkrun.
This achievement marks 10 years of his dedication, perseverance, and passion for running.
He said his journey began in 2014 when he stumbled upon the Bryanston Parkrun while walking his dog. This chance encounter reignited his love for running, which had waned in his late 50s.
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With a background in long-distance running, including five Comrades Marathons and 15 Two Oceans Ultra marathons, King credits parkruns for getting him back on track.
“Parkruns got me straight back into running, and my performances improved significantly. My mantra is: you don’t stop running because you get old – you get old because you stop running.”
To maintain his physical fitness, King follows a rigorous routine that includes training runs four times a week, Pilates sessions, golf, hiking with the Johannesburg Hiking Club, and regular road races.
He said his motivation stems from his desire to stay active and healthy. Since turning 70, he has achieved parkrun podium finishes in the Great Grand Masters category, joking that, ‘this is mostly because people of this age are dead’.
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After reaching his 400th parkrun milestone which signifies a decade of dedication and satisfaction, King said, “it’s very satisfying to know that I can still be out there on a Saturday morning.”
He said running had significantly impacted his overall health and well-being, particularly during retirement.
“Running has kept me fit and strong. I regard myself as being extremely lucky that during my rugby playing days in my 20s I never sustained any knee, hip, ankle, or other injuries. The ‘old ticker’ seems to be okay with me putting it under pressure, but I don’t push my luck.”
For fellow retirees considering running or parkruns, King advised starting slowly.
“It is so important to remain physically active in retirement but if you have had a sedentary life, then start slowly. Walking is encouraged at parkruns. So one doesn’t have to fear being left behind.
“Running is so versatile that wherever you go you can slip into your running shoes and get a run in. You can sneak a run in while the rest of the world is still lying in bed. I have been lucky to make some wonderful friends through running.”
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