73 Years Young, 50 States Strong
By Jordyn Wright & Taji Saleem
At 73 years old, Pastor Ron Du Preez, senior pastor of the Beaumont Seventh-day Adventist Church, set out on a remarkable journey: walking (and sometimes cycling) 50 kilometers a day in 50 states over 50 consecutive days. Aptly titled Senior Strides, the initiative was far more than a physical feat—it was a mission to inspire health, faith, and community among seniors nationwide.
Starting in Hawaii on May 15 and finishing just before sunrise on July 4 at the General Conference Session (GC Session), Du Preez’s journey captivated both local communities and national media. At each stop, he visited senior centers, offering motivational talks, and personal encouragement. “People don’t respond to the ordinary anymore,” he shared. “But when they hear 50K a day for 50 days, they ask, ‘Why?’ That’s when I can share the mission: to energize and empower those over 65 to engage in fitness in a fun and friendly way.”
This is not the first time Du Preez has used fitness to build community. A story on the beginnings of his Senior Strides running group, local to Beaumont, was published in the January 2025 Recorder. This time, Du Preez chose to walk and cycle—making his journey more relatable and inclusive. In between walking and indoor cycling, he juggled logistics, coordinated with centers, and made time to connect deeply with seniors, often praying with them or gifting personalized books like The Great Controversy and The Ministry of Healing.
At the 62nd GC Session, Du Preez was invited to give a special presentation, sharing his experiences, and the impact the journey had on both himself and the communities he visited. This great feat garnered the attraction of Miami Dolphins running back, Alexander Mattison, and local news stations. Showing him support, the news stories reached thousands across Indiana, Michigan, and Southern New England.
Throughout the journey, Du Preez promoted a wholistic health message rooted in the Adventist lifestyle—encouraging movement, plant-based eating, rest, and spiritual well-being. “Stronger legs, longer life,” he quoted from a Time article published during his trek. “Physical health strengthens your mental, social, and spiritual life.”
For Du Preez, Senior Strides wasn’t just about miles—it was about momentum. “No matter your age or stage,” he concluded, “you can improve your health, bless others, and live the abundant life God intended.” You can learn more at seniorstrides.org.
