PROFILE: Frik de Jager finds solace in running

Through taking part in various marathons and fun runs, de Jager said he learned that as with life, each race had its own set of challenges which needed to be taken in its stride.

September 29, 2017

Quinton Boucher 1 minute read

Frik de Jager runs alongside Angeliqe Pretorius and Larochelle Killian, at the Amajuba 10km Challenge.

When he was diagnosed with prostrate cancer in 2008, Frik de Jager made a decision which changed his life forever.

“After I was diagnosed, I remember my doctor telling me I should start exercising.”

He decided he would take up running, something he had never considered doing in the past.

“I used to look at people running and asked myself, don’t they have anything better to do? Now, nine years later I have participated in 174 marathons and half marathons,” he said.

Running proved to be just the thing he needed to improve his health and remain positive.

“If I had known earlier what I know now, I would have started running a lot sooner.”

Through taking part in various marathons and fun runs, de Jager said he learned that as with life, each race had its own set of challenges which needed to be taken in its stride.

“Sometimes during a marathon, I will question myself on why I signed up for it. But once I get the medal, it makes it worthwhile and I always sign up for another run.”

Since he has taken up running, de Jager has found the sport has offered him something more than a healthy lifestyle.

“My 11-year-old granddaughter has started running with me, and I enjoy the quality time that it offers us.”

Now at the age of 64 years, de Jager is cancer free and was determined to continue running.

“I don’t want to take part in the Comrades, nor do I do any formal training. But if I hear about a fun run or local marathon, I will gladly enter it,” he concluded.