Derek van Dam, e.tv's chief meteorologist to run the Comrades for charity; 'every day represents a new opportunity to touch someone's life'.

Derek van Dam, e.tv's chief meteorologist and weather guy who's veritably omnipresent and third in line just after God and then Oprah when it comes to being everywhere and doing everything, is taking part in Durban's Comrades Marathon this Sunday, running 89km for charity.

Yes. He doesn't just sail, and travel the world, and attend events early in the morning, and attend events late at night, and travel through South Africa ans strike fear into even the Energiser bunny (why haven't an energy drink place approached him yet as a sponsor!?), he also runs people.

The Type A, Bob-the-Builder, Roadrunner "meep-meep" guy who is a sports fanatic will run the Comrades Marathon with the aim to raise money for The Compassion Life Foundation. Oh, Derek van Dam sits on the board of this foundation too. (He's also helped with their Feed-a-Family project for 7 years.)

"I have run several races before but this one will be a very rewarding one, so I plan to give it my best shot," says Derek van Dam who is not perfect I must add. He for instance only completed his first ultra-marathon this year doing the Old Mutual Two Oceans in Cape Town. (Also as of yet, not able to talk to puppies.)

"It will be a great honour to be able to fuse two of the things I am most passionate about, my love for extreme sports and giving back to the community."

Derek van Dam started running long distances in his twenties and has since participated in various races throughout the world.

"There are many ways to make a contribution in our society. Every step counts, every day represents a new opportunity to touch someone's life," says Derek van Dam.