Uncle Tienie, running and walking legend, was a member of Bellville Athletic Club for 60 years. This is truly a lifetime of commitment to his beloved club and the term “he is part of the furniture” comes to mind. His passion for running was insatiable and his collection of gathered and documented information and statistics about our club and its members were unmatchable. He loved showing it (8 thick files) to whoever was willing to listen and share his passion. Uncle Tienie was always ready to tell a story, at a race, in a shop or even in the streets when he walked. His passion was to help other people and in this regard, he started charity runs and collected donations in aid of the Ruyterwacht Old Age Home.
In 2007, Uncle Tienie became extremely ill with his heart only functioning at a mere 17%. With the assistance of his doctor Uncle Tienie started a special exercise program. He recovered so well that he could take up running again. Four years later, in 2011 and at age 79, he did the marathon distance for the last time by running the well-known Cape Town Marathon and completed it in a time of 7:52. True to our club spirit, a group of Bellville Club runners supported him all the way during this race.
In his older years, he still participated in the Bellville Club races. He was one of the runners at the back and the sweeper usually took some shortcuts to make sure he would finish in time. We will also remember the sight of Uncle Tienie in his yellow shorts and old running vests.
The highlight of his running career was the World Games of 1983 in Puerto Rico. He wore his Green Jacket with such pride and love to where it, especially to year end functions.
Uncle Tienie, you have completed your race on earth.
Bellville Athletics Club salutes you.
In 2007, Uncle Tienie became extremely ill with his heart only functioning at a mere 17%. With the assistance of his doctor Uncle Tienie started a special exercise program. He recovered so well that he could take up running again. Four years later, in 2011 and at age 79, he did the marathon distance for the last time by running the well-known Cape Town Marathon and completed it in a time of 7:52. True to our club spirit, a group of Bellville Club runners supported him all the way during this race.
In his older years, he still participated in the Bellville Club races. He was one of the runners at the back and the sweeper usually took some shortcuts to make sure he would finish in time. We will also remember the sight of Uncle Tienie in his yellow shorts and old running vests.
The highlight of his running career was the World Games of 1983 in Puerto Rico. He wore his Green Jacket with such pride and love to where it, especially to year end functions.
Uncle Tienie, you have completed your race on earth.
Bellville Athletics Club salutes you.
