Doug Veysey wasn’t even a runner until five years ago.

Since then, he has run seven marathons and qualified for the prestigious Boston Marathon. And last week the Myrtle Point teacher was presented the 2009 Governor’s Fitness Leadership Award.

“It’s pretty neat,” Veysey said leaning against a desk in his classroom. “To be recognized by the state for something I enjoy doing. I just love to run.”

Mayors across the state nominated individuals in their communities who have made strides to promote physical activity and wellness. Veysey was one of eight to receive the accolades.

“Doug is always coaching or doing something in the community,” said Mayor Michael Johnson, who coached baseball with Veysey for years. “Being fit is important for everyone. Doug promotes health for the youth and for the older crowd.” 

Veysey tries to encourage physical fitness by setting an example.

“In general, kids are overweight,” Veysey said. “If you have good health, you can do anything. Without it, you can’t do anything.”

A state report released earlier this year showed childhood obesity in Oregon has tripled in the past 20 years. More than one in five are overweight.

 The 51-year-old got into running when the Myrtle Point Junior High School needed a track coach. These days, Veysey coaches track, cross country and baseball, in addition to, hosting a local running club, in which he rewards members with T-shirts for crossing mileage milestones. One club participant has tracked 500 miles since June. Veysey is over 1,000 miles for the year.

Veysey also writes a periodic column in The World called “Exercising for the health of it.” He recalls two years ago when heat stroke sidelined him in the hospital for days.

“I went through my period of dumbness,” Veysey said. “But I learned from my mistakes.”

In May, Veysey ran the Eugene Marathon in three hours and 31 minutes — which is just over eight minutes a mile. His time qualified him for the Boston Marathon, and his acceptance letter arrived last week.

Travel costs for the 26.2-mile race, held in April, will top $2,000. The Sawdust Theatre in Coquille, another of Veysey’s volunteer commitments, is hosting a benefit on Saturday to raise the money.

“He does a lot for our youth and our community,” said Tony Russell, a theater volunteer. “So, we thought we would do something for him.”

A 7 p.m. ice cream social will precede the 8 p.m. show. Tickets can be purchased for $15 at Bree’s Upscale Resale. All proceeds will go to Veysey.

Russell warned, though, “He’s a better runner than he is singer.”