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Running distance increases with age for Peter

Peter Simpfrendorferg

Peter Simpfendorfer from Gordon in the ACT is running strong at 60. (Photo courtesy of Peter Simpfendorfer)


By Hayley Payne

60-year-old Peter Simpfendorfer has his eyes set on accomplishing the ASICS Half Marathon on the Gold Coast on Sunday 2 July, a great example of a road warrior who has made progressive running gains in recent years.

Peter, who hails from Gordon in the ACT, was inspired to participate at the Gold Coast Airport Marathon back in 2015 by his wife who was taking on her first full marathon.

At the time, Peter was set to run in the Southern Cross University 10km Run but due to a pushbike accident resulting in a fractured rib and punctured lung he was advised against competing.

“I decided to run in the 5.7km Challenge in 2015 instead against medical advice,” Peter said.

“Then last year I competed in the Southern Cross University 10km Run and, this year, at the age of 60, I am competing in the ASICS Half Marathon.

“Next year I am intending to compete in the Gold Coast Airport Marathon as my first full marathon.”

Peter said the MY ASICS training tool which allowed runners to create a customised plan to achieve their goals had been a key element in his preparations over the past few years.

“I have been preparing for my running events by following the MY ASICS online training program which tailors itself to your fitness schedule,” he said

Recently Peter competed at the Australian Masters Games in Adelaide taking home bronze in the 1500m track event and ranked first for his age group in the 10km fun run at the Australian Running Festival.

Peter’s story shows that age is no limit and that anybody can pursue their dreams of competing in a marathon with the help of hard work and dedication.

“My favourite thing about the Gold Coast Airport Marathon is the atmosphere. The flat course also makes it the perfect place for both experienced and new runners to achieve a personal best,” Peter said.

“I think that you’re never too old to start something new, and you never know what might happen!”

27,000 runners will take part in the 2017 Gold Coast Airport Marathon.


The 39th annual Gold Coast Airport Marathon will be held on Saturday 1 and 2 July.

Set to attract more than 27,000 participants of all ages and abilities, this year’s race program will feature the Gold Coast Airport Marathon over 42.2km, Wheelchair Marathon, ASICS Half Marathon, Wheelchair 15km, Southern Cross University 10km Run 5.7km Challenge, Zespri 4km Junior Dash and Zespri 2km Junior Dash.

For the fourth year, the Gold Coast Airport Marathon has been awarded an International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Road Race Gold Label.

RUN #GCAM17 WITH PETER

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