PKG takes a breather from the distance race for new goals
After 23 years of racing in the Comrades Marathon, Peter, 67, shifts his focus to shorter distances and cycling while preparing for a special run with his daughter next year.
After an impressive 23 years of participation in the iconic Comrades Marathon, local runner Peter Kisbey-Green (67) known as PKG, is taking a year off from the gruelling event.
Instead, he has set his sights on new challenges and the chance to run alongside his daughter in the future.
PKG, a seasoned marathoner who first completed the Comrades in 1980, has decided to focus on shorter races and other fitness activities this year.
Also read: Local running legend completes his 23rd Comrades Marathon
He is currently preparing for the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, which he will tackle on April 5.
This year’s event marks a significant milestone for PKG, as it will be his 10th participation, an achievement that qualifies him for the coveted ‘Blue Number.’
“I’m looking forward to the Two Oceans, It’s a fantastic race, and I’m excited about hitting that milestone,” he said.
In addition to the Two Oceans, Kisbey-Green plans to participate in other shorter-distance races, including the Marakele Half Marathon in March and the Skukuza 21 in August.
Also read: Fourways Road Runners club shines at the 2024 Comrades Marathon
He also aims to enhance his cycling routine and is considering entering the Ride Joburg 94.7 event in November.
As he takes a break from the demanding Comrades training schedule, PKG finds solace in the change. “It’s nice not needing to put in the big miles for a while. Training for half marathons is significantly less stressful on the body. I can focus on improving my speed without the risk of overtraining or injury.”
PKG’s long-term vision includes running one or two more Comrades Marathons but with breaks to allow his body to recover. He plans to spend these breaks cycling, which he finds enjoyable and gentler on his joints.
One of his most meaningful goals is to finally run the Comrades with his daughter.
“She has always wanted to participate in the iconic race alongside me, but her past commitments as a game guide in Phinda made training difficult. Now she lives in KwaZulu-Natal, and I don’t see her often but I try to motivate her.”
As PKG embarks on this new chapter of his running journey, he emphasises the importance of setting goals for motivation. While the Comrades Marathon will be on hold for now, PKG is determined to stay fit, rediscover the joy of cycling, and foster his relationship with his daughter through the sport they both love.
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Related article: Local running legend completes his 23rd Comrades Marathon
