Runner Jan Barnard dies

Johannesburg - Former Springbok marathon runner Jan Barnard died in Pretoria on Sunday, his 83rd birthday.

Barnard represented South Africa at the 1956 Olympics and at the Commonwealth Games in 1954 and 1958.

He worked as a journalist and in communications for many years, mostly in the tobacco industry, including at Rembrandt.

The National Press Club extended its condolences to his family and friends. Barnard was an honorary club member.

"Today, the club remembers his active involvement in our early years when we were still the Pretoria Press Club, and we salute him," chairperson Antoinette Slabbert said.

Barnard, who died in his sleep, is survived by five children and nine grandchildren.