Running 1 500km to promote health

Those who say age is nothing but a number might actually have a point when they refer to people like Michael Botha.

He’s 70 years old, but his goals are bigger than many of those of similar age, and even some much younger than he is. Now he’s set off on a path to uplift others to lead a better life.

In an exclusive interview with the Herald, Michael who wears many hats as a pastor, philosopher and athlete said since July he’s been running 15 kilometres per day– which he will do for a total of 100 days – so that he could reach 1 500km.

With him every step of the way is Michael’s prayer shawl reading: “But to you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise, and healing shall be in his wings” – Malachi 4:2.

“This will simply be to display, promote and encourage good health; but most importantly to show perseverance in these tough times,” Michael said.

He wants the community, especially the young people, to realise that their lives are in their hands. His ultimate goal is to help people to reap all the health benefits that being active can offer.

“’I’ve only started working out in my late 60s but I can tell you that I enjoy being healthy. I’ve also gained good health both mentally and physically, and you can even become emotionally stable as you improve.”

However, he admitted to having gone astray once, but thanked God that he managed to save himself from wasting his life. Instead, as an elder in the community, he wants to contribute positively to the community to save those who are on the brink of giving up.

What’s most important, he said, is that people should commit to their decisions and make sure that they’re still married to them tomorrow.

“If they see that even an old man like me can do this, maybe, just maybe they’ll follow in my footsteps, because life is like having a job. You have to adhere to a contractual obligation – you show up on time and do the best you can do,” Michael said.

EXCLUSIVE