By STEFANIE GARBER
“Running in the family” has a special meaning for Peter Holz and his son John.
The two fitness fans will join thousands of others to compete in the Yarra Valley Grape Run on 14 September.
This is the third year in a row Peter and his 19-year-old son will race in the event.
“It’s lovely running through the valley and the grapevines,” Peter said.
His interest in running was sparked in 2008, when he joined lunchtime fitness classes offered by his work.
“I just really enjoyed running, especially doing it with other people I worked with,” he said.
The lunchtime sessions soon led to a regular fitness routine and a passion for running events.
John, on the other hand, has always had a strong interest in sport, particularly tennis.
He currently works as a tennis coach and personal trainer.
During the 2011 Grape Run, he came first in his category.
“John sort of runs alongside me, although I’m sure he could take off and leave me in the dust,” Peter said.
The team originally decided to join the Grape Run because of its proximity to their hometown.
“Seeing as how there’s a race right outside the front door, I thought we might as well jump on board,” Peter said.
His favourite aspect of the event is that it takes place in the countryside rather than the city.
“It’s a great day out. You get to come out to the Yarra Valley so as well as doing the run you have the Healesville sanctuary and all the wineries,” he said.
However, he warns would-be Grape runners that the course is quite hilly.
“I would certainly advise some preparation on running hills,” he said.
The Grape Run is not the only event in the Holz family’s busy fitness schedule.
The two men competed in a half marathon in July and plan to tackle a full marathon in October.
For Peter, running is a way to spend quality time with his son while also pursuing a fulfilling hobby.
“We do quite a lot of things together and it’s a great father-son experience,” he said.
