Bath Half Marathon runner, 77, says running keeps him medication-free

A Westcountry man who has been running for more than four decades credits his health to the sport – and believes that is why he is medication-free at 77.

David Saunders, who lives in Cam, Gloucestershire, is a familar face in the local race circuit, having completed all but two Bath Half Marathons since the 1980s. This Sunday, March 15, he’ll compete again.

He compares the Bath Half atmosphere to the London Marathon, which he has run an impressive 14 times in his 45-years of running.

David, who is a member of Dursley Running Club, was also recently crowned MV75+ champion in the Glos AAA Road Race Series 2025 and has also taken part in the Stroud Half around 40 times.

The “secret” to running, David says is “listening to your body”, as he reveals he has only been injured once in the time he has been running.

David began running after the birth of his second son and runs around 20-30 miles a week. He first joined the running club in Frome, Somerset, where he lived for many years.

“It is all about consistency,” he said. “I have been fairly lucky by staying almost injury free, but it is really important to look after yourself, eat properly and not overdo it.

“I do sit ups, press ups and squats every morning and all I do is take cod liver oil and glucosamine, no medication whatsoever.”

David is looking forward to the Bath Half and says he doesn’t try to chase personal bests anymore. He said: “Normal preparation is that I run throughout the year and keep myself ticking over, of course the idea of chasing personal bests have long gone now because I am 77.

“I absolutely love the Bath Half and look forward to it each year. It is well organised, has a great atmosphere and the crowd support is phenomenal.

“I would compare it to the London Marathon which I have completed 14 times and get the same buzz & excitement taking part in both events. I have also completed a local event namely the Stroud Half appx 40 times.”

The Bath Half was first held in 1982 and sees thousands of dedicated runners tackle 13.1 miles each year. You can find the results of the Bath Half on Sunday, here.