JOINING any sports club, be it tennis, squash, bowls or running, is a simple task. Well, that’s what I believed until the South Coast Striders’ assisting running captain, Neville Storbeck, pointed out a very different view.
I have been taking part in long distance running since I was in grade 9, back in the 1980s. My father introduced me to a running club and the process was plain and simple, in fact no big deal at all.
Neville’s scenario was quite different. He woke up one morning, looked in the mirror and decided that he had to do something about his weight problem.
He put on some takkies and started walking around the block in the hope of shedding a few kilos. A friend of his urged him to join South Coast Striders but he refused.
His reasons for not joining astounded me.
He explained that to be a member of a running club you had to be an accomplished runner. Neville felt that if he joined club members would make fun of his inability to perform on the open road.
As my jaw dropped open and flies flew in to nest, he continued in saying that there are many others out there that feel the same way.
Well, let’s look at what Neville did. He eventually plucked up the courage to join Striders three years ago and claims it was one of the most terrifying decisions he has made.
He ran and walked every 4km time trial and, while not with the club, he ran along the beach to try and gain fitness.
He also started attending the braais at the clubhouse every Wednesday after time trials, where he gained valuable support and knowledge from fellow running members, in particular Graham Christensen, who helped mentor him.
Before he knew it he was standing at the start of the Comrades Marathon, something which had been a life-long dream.
Neville now boasts one Comrades medal, has run five marathons and two ultra-marathons – and in the process, shed 30kg!
Now, if you look at those stats you must agree that Neville has become a massive achiever, someone who managed to overcome his fears of joining a club, and can now conquer any obstacles that stand in his way.
If you feel the same way as Neville did, we urge you to come and join us.
Neville mentioned that he will be on hand to assist you in your endeavours. It will change your life, he says, with a big smile.
Join us for our weekly time trials every Wednesday evening, starting from the running club in Edward Avenue in Uvongo at 5.30pm (4km or 8km).
Walkers do a 4km time trial starting from the club house at 5.15pm.
For running queries contact Isak Ludick at 076 4668570.
The Goss and Balfe Marathon in Scottburgh (pre-entry only) takes place this Sunday.
On Sunday, October 18, fit and fast walkers will meet at Southcoast Mall at 6am for 15km walk.
For more details contact Ronel at 039 3318996 or Moira at 039 6950099.
