Is Colin Thorne New Zealand's fittest 100-year-old?

Colin Thorne's done a fair few miles and doesn't plan on stopping now he's 100.

While his running days are behind him, Thorne has taken up walking and will line up in the 5.5km race at this weekend's Rotorua Marathon. It's the event's 60th anniversary, and being part of the celebrations was a no-brainer having completed 22 of his 50 marathons there.

Thorne said he's been drawn to the event because the course is testing and it has great atmosphere.

"That's why I'm going back, probably for the last time. I just want to see what it's like."

While few can comprehend a strict exercise regime in later years, let alone at 100, Thorne can't imagine life without it. It's been that way since taking up running in his 60s.

"It [running] was just in my blood. I've always been on the farm and worked hard. Addicted I suppose you would call it," Thorne said.

He's kept track of his achievements in a book. The Rotorua, New Plymouth and Whangārei Marathons are his favourites, completing all three many times.

In 2013 he was the oldest competitor at the New York Marathon, completing the race at 89 years of age.

"I got quicker as I went along you see. I got three hours for a while, then after that I got slower and slower."

No matter how fast or slow, Thorne's family have been beside him all the way. A big contingent travel to support him at all of his races, whether it's a marathon or a 5km parkrun.

Although one person will be missing from his support crew this weekend.

"I just miss my partner," he said.

Thorne's wife Betty travelled with him to every race, apart from New York when she was too unwell to travel. She died in 2021 in their 70th year of marriage.

"She'll be looking down. She'd say just keep going boy."

His positivity is infectious, doing everything with a smile on his face. As for pre-race rituals, one thing hasn't changed.

"The night before is fish and chips, just a habit I think. You got the proteins and everything in it."

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