Andrews University Alumnus Inspires Seniors to Get Active

At 73 years old, Ron du Preez, an Andrews University alumnus, pastor, and lifelong advocate for healthy living, walked and cycled his way across America.

As part of his national campaign, Senior Strides, du Preez traveled to all 50 U.S. states in 50 days, completing 50 kilometers (31 miles) each day to raise awareness about senior health. 

On Friday, June 20, day 37 of his journey, du Preez returned to the campus of Andrews University, where he earned four graduate degrees between 1978 and 1993. “It’s full circle,” he said. “I began my fitness journey here at Andrews where I began swimming in the pool, running my first 10-mile race and working as an editor for the student paper. Being back here brings it all together.” 

Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, du Preez moved to the U.S. in 1976 to study at Andrews. During the next two decades he completed a Master of Arts in religion, a Master of Arts in education, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctor of Ministry. He currently serves as a pastor in Beaumont, California. 

It’s du Preez’s commitment to promoting healthy aging that ultimately drives his mission. According to recent health studies, fewer than 15 percent of Americans aged 65 and older engage in the recommended amount of aerobic and muscle strengthening activities. Acknowledging the 50 million older adults in the United States who don’t meet these fitness benchmarks, du Preez said he hopes to be a source of motivation. “My goal is to energize, empower, and encourage others. Especially those over 65, to live vibrantly and healthfully,” he shared. 

Du Preez began his journey on May 15, 2025, in Honolulu, Hawaii, followed by a trip to Alaska the next day. Since then, he and his support team—including a driver, cook, and media coordinator—have traveled across the United States. Each day involved completing 50 kilometers by walking and/or cycling, attending media interviews, and visiting senior centers. At each center du Preez delivered motivational presentations and distributed literature about the importance of wellness and healthy living. 

Although his original plan involved walking all 50 kilometers daily, the demands of travel, public engagement, and logistical constraints led to a shift. “To visit with seniors and get to the next state on time, biking became the practical choice,” du Preez said. 

Throughout his journey du Preez’s core message remained consistent: Begin with manageable steps, maintain a steady routine, and find enjoyment in movement. “People often say, ‘You’re doing 50K; I could never do that,’ ” he explained. “But I tell them, ‘Just walk around the block. Find something you enjoy. And don’t aim for perfection; aim for regularity.’ ” 

Despite the physical toll, including recurring blisters, sore muscles, and a cold, du Preez did not miss a single day. “I’m still out here doing 50K a day because the mission matters,” he stated. 

Looking ahead, du Preez is already setting new personal goals. He hopes to participate in the 100th Comrades Marathon, a 56-mile ultramarathon in South Africa, when he turns 75.

According to du Preez, his effort is not solely about physical fitness. “Jesus said, ‘I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly,’ ” he noted. “That’s what I’m promoting, an abundant life, physically and spiritually.”

The original version of this story was posted on Lake Union Herald.