Milestones and first-time runners added to the festive atmosphere as participants gathered for the Ebotse parkrun on March 7, turning the weekly 5km event into a celebration of achievement, community spirit and personal triumph.

Among those adding to the celebratory mood was David de Sousa, holder of Comrades Marathon green number 6233, who celebrated an impressive 300th parkrun milestone. Bardene resident Mannie Merckel (67) also reached a notable landmark, completing his 50th event.

Sharing the spotlight were the Behrens family from Bonaero Park, who experienced the joy of the event for the first time.

Reflecting on his milestone, De Sousa, who took part in his first parkrun eight years ago, said the journey has been a pleasant one.

“It’s the only way I can keep fit at my age. I’m turning 75 and it keeps me on my toes. I’m not doing it competitively – I just do it for the fitness and for meeting new people,” he said.

The 10-time Comrades Marathon finisher began running in 1981 and completed his first Ultimate Human Race that same year in the colours of Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC), clocking 09:55:18 to earn a bronze medal.

“I had never done anything further than walking around the block. I met up with a couple of guys who encouraged me to start running. Before I knew it, they challenged me to do a marathon. I did and finished. I remember getting emotional seeing the people who didn’t qualify for the Comrades,” said De Sousa.

He went on to run 10 consecutive Comrades from 1981 to 1990. He represented BNAC from 1981 to 1984 before switching to Benoni Harriers in 1985. Beyond the 90km ultramarathon, De Sousa has also completed three Ironman events, swum the Midmar Mile and taken part in the Dusi Canoe Marathon.

“If you persevere, the rewards will come along the way,” he said.

Asked whether he would encourage others to participate in parkrun, De Sousa said it offers a wonderful opportunity to socialise with people who share similar interests.

“You don’t need to be a star. I used to be at the front at one stage, but now I’m right at the back. It doesn’t matter what your fitness level is, as long as you come out and enjoy the comradeship.”

First-timer Cobus Behrens shared his excitement after completing his maiden parkrun alongside his wife, Celeste and sons, Joshua and Cian.

“It was lekker. It’s fresh air and family time. We are definitely doing it again,” he said.

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