When Brent Harvey ran out with North Melbourne for the first time in 1996, nobody would expected the same number 29 to still be running around in 2016.

Harvey is preparing to play game 427 on Saturday night, breaking a long standing record held by Michael Tuck.

For the man affectionately known as ‘Boomer’, playing one game was a “huge” achievement, let alone another 426.

“To get one was a huge goal, and I ticked that off. Then you move to 10, 50 and 100 and once you start ticking those boxes and you’ve been here for a while those milestones keep coming,” Harvey said on Monday.

“When I first started playing footy I didn’t think I’d be playing 427 games.”

While Harvey’s preparation is faultless, the number 29 said genetics played a big part in his longevity.

“There has to be a little bit of luck with injuries. I'm pretty blessed with some good family genes.

“My dad played footy until he was about 50 and he still plays cricket – he's 63.

“I prepare as well as anyone. I've put in a lot of hard work over the years.”

The 38-year-old said the enormity of the occasion probably won’t hit home for many years to come.

“I think it will mean, and sink in a little bit more when I’m older,” he said.

"This will be something that I sit back and reflect on after my football career's finished, when you've got the grandkids on your knee and your name's on top of the list," he said.

"The day I fall out of love with football, I'll put my hand up first and say I need to walk away, but I'm still in love with it.”

While there will be a firm focus on the four points on Saturday, Harvey said he expected some emotional scenes on the night.

“I think when you run out with your kids and your family is there, whether they present the jumper or whatever we decide to do there it gets a little bit emotional.

“But it won’t be over the top, my focus will be on going out there and starting well as a team.”