Japie makes the headlines
A NATIONAL magazine, Modern Athlete, has showcased Queenstown’s physically-challenged runner, Japie Greyvenstein, in its December edition.
The article, by Sean Falconer, indicates that Greyvenstein is looking for help to get a new running leg.
He has spent many years running with a prosthetic blade since his decision to return to running 13 years ago.
Greyvenstein lost his leg in a railway accident when he was 21 years old. Today, at the age of 54, he continues to be an inspiration to both able-bodied runners and those facing physical challenges and is a well-known figure in races in the Eastern Cape and further afield.
He received a sponsored blade eight years ago from the Sports Trust and then ran the Old Mutual Two Oceans Ultra six times, finishing it officially twice.
He has tried to run the Comrades three times, calling it quits at 71km one year.
He has, however, experienced difficulty with his legs over the past few years and the blade no longer fits the stump as snugly as it should.
This has resulted in a lopsided gait which has translated into problems with his left knee.
Greyvenstein lives on a small disability pension from the railways which he supplements with painting and maintenance work and he is unable to pay for a new running leg.
He said this week that he would love to continue running and would like to tackle the Comrades again this year, but that without a new running leg, his passion will be dealt a severe blow.
Anyone willing to help can contact Peet van der Walt on 079-231 1907. – Rep reporter with information from Modern Athlete