At the age of 75, Earnest Twala insists on walking everywhere he needs to go, irrespective of the distance, because of this, he won a 5km race in Eldorado Park in his age category.
“I don’t believe in public transport, I believe in God’s transport (legs),” Twala said.
His children and grandchildren who call him ‘Johnny Walker’ are keeping the legacy by walking long distances.
“I saw my grandparents walk long distances, it’s in our blood.
“I’ve been walking for over 60 years, it started when I went to school,” Twala said.
Talking about his experience during the 5km race, Twala said he never thought he would ever come first in any race. When he saw the end of the race was two blocks away, he picked up his pace and never looked back.
“I saw an opening and I used it to my advantage,” Twala said.
He advises the elderly to walk as often as they can because it keeps them healthy.
“Use your taxi fare to buy fruit along the road, walking is free,” he said.
He also says that they should read often to keep their mind active.
“I’ve been to America, I’ve been to Cairo and I’ve even been a cowboy, because of books,” said Twala.
He takes a 2km walk everyday from Freedom Park to Eldorado Park to buy bread, for the exercise.
