At 73 years old, Ron du Preez, an Andrews University alumnus, pastor and lifelong advocate for healthy living, is walking and cycling his way across America. As part of his national campaign, Senior Strides, du Preez is traveling to all 50 U.S. states in 50 days, completing 50 kilometers (31.07 miles) each day to raise awareness about senior health.

On Friday, June 20, 2025, 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 says. “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 begin his studies at Andrews. Over 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% 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 says 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 shares.

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 involves completing 50 kilometers by walking and/or cycling, attending media interviews and visiting senior centers. At each center, du Preez delivers motivational presentations and distributes 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 says.

Throughout his journey, du Preez’s core message has 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 explains. “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 recent cold, du Preez has not missed a single day. “I’m still out here doing 50K a day because the mission matters,” he states.

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. He is also exploring the possibility of producing a documentary or launching a podcast to extend the mission of Senior Strides beyond this summer.

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

The original article was published on the Andrews University news site. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news. For more information about Senior Strides or for information about supporting the project, visit www.seniorstrides.org or follow the initiative on Instagram at @SeniorStrides50K.