STOUGHTON - At 76 years of age, Del Coderre stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of perseverance.
While many of his peers might be settling into a quieter lifestyle, Coderre laces up his running shoes and takes on marathons, inspiring countless others along the way.
Coderre, who has lived in Stoughton all his life, is an active member of the community and a member of the Stoughton Lions Club, where he is involved as the secretary, helping to organize the Stoughton Daze parade and Canada Day festivities, while also being a big part of the W. H. Coderre and Sons business.
Coderre’s journey into marathon running began later in life. In January 2013, Coderre’s wife Shirley thought it was a clever idea to purchase a treadmill to get in better shape. Del Coderre was 65 years old at the time and about 40 pounds overweight.
He admits he had not been very active since high school and reluctantly agreed to get the treadmill.
What started as a simple daily jog on the treadmill soon turned to boredom. It was killing him looking at the four walls that surrounded him, so the treadmill running did not last long.
He took his running to the streets in the early morning hours, which was much more pleasurable, and he began to slowly lose weight, not only through running but eating properly and having adequate sleep. Soon his physical and mental health began to improve.
He enjoyed this new aspect of his life and in August 2013, he entered his first five-kilometre run at the Moose Mountain marathon. He won a gold medal as the only man over the age of 65.
Since his journey began, he has participated in many marathons throughout Saskatchewan, including Stoughton, Estevan, Regina and Saskatoon.
He has a closet full of t-shirts and medals that he has won over the past 11 years, and he just cannot stand to get rid of them, as they all bring back wonderful memories.
Coderre has been inspired, motivated and in awe of the many runners who are in their 80s and 90s that still participate in the Queen City Marathon every year.
His participation in marathons goes beyond personal achievement. It is about a statement that physical fitness and a zest for life can persist into one’s senior years.
Support from family and friends was crucial to Coderre’s marathon journey, as his wife, children and grandchildren encouraged him to continue on with this passion.
Looking ahead, Coderre has no plans to slow down and he reflects the benefits of staying active in later years.
“I will be 76 years old this month and I still love to run,” said Coderre. “I will continue to run as long as I am healthy.”
He will embrace these marathons, one kilometre at time, and live life to its fullest.
