09 June 2026
Peter Schweizer has completed a remarkable half marathon in New Zealand, crossing the finish line ahead of his target time and using the experience to raise awareness for men and their families impacted by prostate cancer.
After a 19-week training program, Peter set himself a goal of finishing the race in 2 hours and 30 minutes. On the day, he went even better, completing the half-marathon in just over 2 hours and 28 minutes.
“The race was fantastic,” Peter says. “Most important of all, my 19-week training program paid off as I felt strong over the entire distance.”
Like many runners, Peter felt the nerves before the 8am start.
“I did feel very anxious early in the morning,” he says. “Lots of doubts if I had trained enough.”
But once the race began, Peter trusted his preparation and stuck to his plan.
Crossing the finish line was an emotional moment.
“I was close to tears of joy and happiness,” he says. “I kept to my race plan and managed not to start too fast, which is my usual problem.”
Peter says the first kilometre is often the hardest part of any run.
“Like an old engine that slowly warms up, I listen to my body and hope all warms up well,” he says.
Running in support of PCFA gave the challenge even greater meaning. Peter wore his blue The Tough Get Tested PCFA T-shirt on the flight to New Zealand, which sparked a conversation with another man who had his prostate removed 20 years ago.
“It is just amazing when you realise how many normal men have been affected by prostate cancer or cancer in general,” Peter says.
Peter has been open about his own prostate cancer experience and says he is grateful his cancer was detected early. His surgery and recovery have gone well, with no traceable PSA levels detected in his latest blood test in February.
“Life has truly returned to normal,” he says.
Peter says regular exercise is now a key part of his life, along with keeping up with medical check-ups.
“We pay for our cars to be annually checked, so don’t forget your yearly body check-up,” he says. “Make sure your GP includes PSA testing in the annual blood test, especially if you have prostate cancer in your family.”
Peter’s next half marathon is already booked, with the GC50 on the Gold Coast planned for October 11. His new goal is to improve his time to 2 hours and 20 minutes.
His message to anyone considering a challenge for PCFA is simple.
“Do it and enjoy the journey,” Peter says. “I feel proud raising money for PCFA.”
