For the past two years Kelder has been doing virtual marathons due to lockdown regulations. He completed the ultra- marathon’s 56 kilometers in his age category of 40-49 with a time of 06:38:24 on Sunday, April 17. He told the Herald that although he did not run as fast as he had expected to, he is happy with his time as it is faster than his 2019 race time. Last year the local runner also participated in the Comrades Virtual Marathon, where he ran 90km from Phalaborwa to Hoedspruit.

Also read: Kelder completes 90km during Virtual Comrades Marathon

He started doing virtual races in 2020 in order to keep fit and live an active lifestyle and ever since he has also lost a great amount of weight. He is a health enthusiast who teaches and advises people about diet and training. His advice to those who want to start training or lose weight is to start by first taking the decision to change their lifestyle. “Don’t start by buying expensive gear or training shoes, just start by getting off the couch and run.

“After you pick up some momentum, you can buy expensive gear. “Also look for an accountability partner who will help you to be disciplined and to stay focused,” Kelder added. He said that good nutrition is essential in following a healthy lifestyle. For more information, follow him on his Facebook page, Healthy Active Phalaborwa.