"I just love it. I like being fit, getting outdoors. It gives me something to do and it's a great way to make life-long companions, plus sometimes I get to run with good-looking sheilas half my age, it's a real treat."
Mr Vyver, not lacking in humour, expected the half marathon to be a "walk in the park" compared with the numerous full marathons he has competed in before.
"A half marathon's like a marathon but without all the pain."
Mr Vyver has competed in marathons across the country, in Canada and in London.
"London was a highlight for me, seeing all the Kiwis cheer for me as I ran past them, I thought, 'this is just amazing'."
He said Rotorua residents were lucky to live in a place with so many good running spots.
"We're so lucky to have such beautiful forests to run in, it's such a great place."
Event organiser Charlotte Pearson said she expected about 1500 people of all ages to compete in the four running events this Sunday, which include the half marathon, the quarter marathon, a 5km fun run and kids' event of 3km or 1.5km.
Ms Pearson said 1200 people had already registered but she expected a number of late entries.
"The numbers are up on last year, which is great to see. We just hope it will be a fun, family day out and people enjoy themselves."
She said the event would be followed by a prizegiving, with prize packs and goodie bags up for grabs.
Details
What: Copthorne Off-Road Half Marathon.
Where: Whakarewarewa Forest, meet at the Waipa car park.
When: Sunday. Registration from 7.30am, events from 9am until 1.30pm. Prizegiving at 1.30pm.
Cost: From $15 to $55. $15 for kids' event. Free to watch.
For more information visit www.eventpromotions.co.nz.
