Veteran runner Johan aims for Comrades silver

POLOKWANE- Veteran runner and member of Pietersburg Road Runners, Johan van der Merwe is aiming for his 11th silver medal at this year’s Comrades Marathon, set for June 11 in Durban.

It will be the 51-year-old’s 18th Comrades, and he says he has been working hard on his endurance levels and pace in order to reach his goal.

“I was injured in 2015 and could not participate as a result. I have since healed from the injury and this will be a comeback event for me. I want to finish the event in nine hours and get that silver medal.”

He said he still has a few more years left before retiring as a runner, and his aim is to round off his running career with 15 silver medals, “I believe I can do it.”

He has attributed his illustrious running career to an extended support structure.

“I started running years ago and I could not have achieved what I have achieved had it not been for my family and their support. I really have an amazing family. My wife and son are runners too and they are always at my practice sessions and running events. I truly appreciate their support and I carry them in my heart wherever I am going.”

He said he is also proud to have contributed to the careers of local athletes who are making it big in athletics.

“I have trained Rufus Photo and Lutendo Maphoto who have both done well in the Comrades Marathon over the past years. Lutendo finished in 10th position last year and I believe he will do well again. I still assist several runners from the city to achieve their dreams.”

He would love to see even more runners from the city participating in the Comrades Marathon, winning even more medals and accolades.

“The size of the marathon is something to behold. The hype and the media attention compared to other athletics events, is amazing, as is the camaraderie and support athletes show towards each other. It is good to see athletes, young and old, supporting each other on until they reach the finish line.”

He urged young runners who have high aspirations, to focus and commit themselves to the course at all times.

“My message to the young aspiring athletes is that they must work hard. There are no short cuts in life, they must just work hard to achieve their goals. There are more disappointments than highlights and failures along the way. Ignore the negatives and the criticism and focus on your career.

“I wish all the runners from Polokwane well in this year’s Comrades, may you all achieve your personal goals.”

Colinda Potgieter, the chairperson of Pietersburg Road Runners described Johan as a good servant of the club and a role model for young runners.

“Many young runners look up to him and we wish him and all the runners well at the event. He has a vast knowledge of running and is always willing to help other athletes.”

Runner Rufus Photo wished Johan well in his pursuit of another silver medal.

“I met him 14 years ago and he has played a huge role in my running career. He is always willing to share his expertise and knowledge about running and I appreciate him for that.”