Completing her 100th parkrun at 85 on February 12, Christabell Cilliers, who is by no means frail and looks no older than 70, is ready for many more to come.

Cilliers, from White River in Mpumalanga, was met towards the end of the course by a young friend who fell in behind her, holding up a large flag to notify everyone she had just completed a parkrun milestone.

Cilliers, who is a practising aromatherapist and blends her own special mix of essential oils for clients, said she has always loved nature and being outdoors, and became part of the Lowveld Ramblers (a local hiking group) in 1982.

“I had the most wonderful times on those hikes. I was a regular and was there every Saturday. I even attended some of the longer hikes that lasted a few days instead of a few hours,” she said fondly.

“As I became older, the hikes became more difficult for me, and then someone told me I should try the parkrun in White River, which is held at Ingwenyama Resort.

“It was an absolute lifesaver for me. I was hiking because I loved it, and I loved the people I met and all the beautiful places I was able to see. When I started going to parkrun, I was still able to be out in nature with beautiful scenery. I also met many interesting people and have made the most wonderful friends,” she said.

Cilliers, who lives in town with her 90-year-old husband to whom she has been married for 64 years, said she found the White River parkrun very welcoming when she first started.

“I have friends who have moved to other provinces and found that the parkruns outside of Mbombela were not as welcoming and warm as ours. I am very grateful for how kind and patient our organisers, walkers and runners are. The people who attend are also a big part of why I go. They are very supportive and encouraging.

“It is my injection of happiness. It is quite an inspirational thing to get up and get going at 07:00 on a Saturday. Young people must take this opportunity and start walking and hiking where they can. We hike and walk for fun because it is lekker,” she said.

Cilliers said her secret to keeping fit and healthy was due to her regular walks at the parkrun, as well as walks every afternoon with her beloved dog, Bokkie.

“I also keep myself busy. I still see one client a day for aromatherapy, facials and Swedish massages. I have several friends who have been loyal clients for over 30 years,” she said.

“I will keep on with parkrun. I do not have a goal anymore after reaching my 100th run. I am just taking it one at a time,” said Cilliers.