Meet the 80-year-old Gold Coast Marathon founder about to take on a marathon world trip

YOU’RE never too old to see the world — and one 80-year-old Gold Coast man is about to prove it.

THE self-described father of the Gold Coast Marathon will miss the event’s 40th running next month to realise a childhood dream.

John Goldstein will celebrate his 80th birthday reliving the words penned by author Jules Verne, who he revered as a youngster, and travel around the world in 80 days.

John is going around the world in 80 days Picture Glenn Hampson

The marathon co-founder and Goldsteins Bakery stalwart will “chase the sunrise” like Verne’s Phileas Fogg.

Mr Goldstein’s journey will span three continents and eight countries.

“The marathon, my baby, has grown up to be a giant for the Gold Coast, and teaches everyone to look after themselves for a purpose,” Mr Goldstein said.

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John was inspired by Around The World In 80 Days.

“I think this journey will be another example, one for older people that there is a world out there that is still there to challenge you, and your outlook on things,” he said.

“Travelling gives you that youthfulness,” he said.

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John Goldstein. Picture Glenn Hampson

Mr Goldstein hopes to see the original planes built by the Wright brothers, fish for wild salmon, take in shows on Broadway and chart his own course on a boat in the Caribbean.

“I’m in panic about how fast it has happened. I had a dream and had a travel agent who was able to put that together,” Mr Goldstein said.

“I spent the weekend packing repacking the suitcase.”

Mr Goldstein said he lives by a few simple rules to keep him happy an healthy, especially since the passing of his wife.

“Smile a lot, stand up straight and do it — by that I mean anything you want to do.

”And finally listen to your body, it will talk to you,” Mr Goldstein says.

The adventurer will take off on his journey this Thursday.

“I’ll be back on the eightieth day, not earlier or later,” he said.