ESTCOURT KZN: Keerath keeps up the pace
“When you are battling during a race and you find a club member, you know that person will help you to the finish"
Being one with the open road is something Keerath Ramsahaye (66) savours. As an avid runner, Mr Ramsahaye says that running has not only taught him discipline, but also brings a feeling of satisfaction that is addictive.
Born and raised on Zaailager Farm, Mr Ramsahaye started running when he was in high school, participating in long-distance and cross-country marathons. As adulthood loomed, and work and home life also filled the hours of his day, Mr Ramsahaye was one of the first people to join Forderville Athletic Club when it was first formed.
“There were just a few members, but we wanted to get a running club started n Estcourt,” he said.
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Since then, he has been a loyal member of the club and has had some of the best experiences in his running career.
“Being part of a club is like being part of a family,” Mr Ramsahaye explained, and this does not only extend to meetings or local training runs that start at 4am.
“When you are battling during a race and you find a club member, you know that person will help you to the finish. Over the years, we have become like family,” he substantiates.
Some of the best memories he has include running the Two Oceans Marathon, three Comrades Marathons, as well as the Soweto Marathon.
“The Two Oceans was the best run. It is very scenic, and the support and encouragement on the road is wonderful. The Soweto Marathon is electrifying because you are part of 46,000 runners. The route takes you through Soweto and it was the first time I had been there. Finishing the race was great,” Mr Ramsahaye reminisces.
While Covid-19 has put the brakes on training runs for members, Mr Ramsahaye still goes for walks and exercises at home with his wife, Daisy, who he says has always provided a supporting role in his running, so much so that he has also convinced her to participate in races.
Mr Ramsahaye hopes that running will grow in Estcourt and encourages all those who are interested to take the first step.
“Go for it! Start off slow and build yourself up,” he advises.
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