The Grandmaster who was a Vet - In loving memory of Comrades Number 3828, Dr. Duncan Christie

For many of our members, past and present, active or not so active Duncan was one of the most well- loved and cohesive members we have ever had the pleasure of sharing our running time on the road.

A run was never just a run with Duncan.  If you were with him with the morning group he was always one of the first cars waiting in the car park and would clap his hands together and get the run going stating simply “Right. It’s time to hit the road!”.  En route there was always time for a quick nature lesson and without even realising it within a couple of years of his company I started to realise I could identify a variety of bird calls and various Lowveld trees.   A run was always more exciting if buck were spotted, injured animals rescued from the side of the road or road kill identified!  The highlight of these being finding snakes along the run, which our resident herpetologist would take great joy in throwing at the likes of the Majolas as well as any shriek worthy victim.

Duncan loved the company of like paced “back of the pack” runners and always admiringly teased the “greyhounds” who led the pack. He would give everyone nicknames and enthusiastically followed everyone’s running progress and genuinely congratulate. Duncan’s sense of humour knew no bounds and he was awarded the prestigious “stirrer of the year” award several times over based on his politically incorrect but jesting commentary. He enthusiastically led debate as if his fellow male runners were bums or boobs men. Paid homage to the day of reconciliation by suggesting staged re-enactment of the Anglo-Zulu war and without realising it continually forged a unity within our ranks.

Duncan ran many races, most notably 3 Comrades marathons from 1999 to 2010 and helped several people to reach their own goals during this time. He exemplified the word Comrade with his positive vasbyt attitude. He was always available to help if his schedule allowed at races and sorted out   parking and handing out of medals in the most social of ways.

Whenever possible, Duncan loved bringing family along to join us at runs. We loved sharing time with them and most especially Skukuza where there was always fireside laughter red wine and “wegstappertjies” with Jakkie.

Even when Duncan’s knee halted his running he made the effort to pop in to time trial for a drink. He wanted to stay connected to the club and his running friends.

Duncan leaves a huge gap in our club.  He will be sorely missed. His legacy will remain in memories of a family man whose humour, commitment and strong sense of community were an example to all. Our thoughts are with Belle and the whole Christie Clan at this time.

Rest, so very well, in peace Duncan.