Hermanus parkrun legend

Writer: Sue Upton.

Willie Loedolff, affectionately known as “Oom Willie”, is a legend in his age category at the Hermanus parkrun. Not only did he recently complete his 200th parkrun at the age of 91, but he also performed 102 volunteer tail walker duties.

A tribute to Oom Willie on the Hermanus parkrun Facebook page reads: “It is also amazing to note that he has run 76 times in the VM 90–94 age cate- gory, the third highest in the world.” A proud achievement indeed! Oom Willie says he enjoys being part of the community of Hermanus parkrunners on a Saturday morning.

“My health is of utmost importance to me. I believe when you retire you should get good exercise and stay active. Although old age affects your muscles, hearing and memory, the parkrun is one of the events which has encouraged me to keep active. Personal times at my age are not that important, but yes, it is also good for the ego to keep track of my records,” says Oom Willie.

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