Minister resurrects running group
COMRADES Marathon veteran and minister of Amanzimtoti Methodist Church, Charles Panaino wants to motivate running enthusiasts, to either get fit or tackle the ultimate human race.
Charles has resurrected a running group, ‘Charlie’s Angels’ which he had started a number of years ago, mainly comprising parishioners. “The group was named after the movie, ‘Charlie’s Angels which was big at the time and linked to my name,” said Charles.
Some of the group members successfully competed in the Comrades Marathon in 2000. However, the group is not only for those who want to tackle the Comrades, it is for anyone of any fitness level.
Charles has completed 30 Comrades and officially hung up his running shoes in 2010. “While the group is for anyone who wants to get fit, my ultimate goal is to train those interested to tackle the 2015 race. However, if anyone feels they are fit enough to participate in the 2014 race, they can do so.”
Although Charles is no longer a competitive runner, he still runs 5km a day to keep fit and recently tackled a 20km run.
However, he said he may consider dusting off his running shoes depending on how he feels. “The last two races in 2009 and 2010 were tough. I don’t want to push myself, if my training goes well, I may consider it because I want to enjoy it.”
The group will meet on Saturday, 28 September at 6am in front of the Toti Lifesaving Club at Toti main beach. For more information contact the church office on 031-903-2540.
