This coming Saturday (March 30th), the Parkrun scheme will be launched with local Olympic heroes, Marc and Helen Jenkins, in attendance to drop the flag and start the first Parkrun event.
The following Saturday (April 6th), the Parkrun event will go public - a spokesperson for Bridgend CBC thinks the event will be advantageous to the picturesque Seaside town, “Parkrun is a positive initiative to get people active, while also being in addition to this an economic benefit with a boost to the local economy, as many participants will use the weekly event as a social activity with family and friends, staying on for refreshments."
The Parkrun scheme was started in 2004 in Bushy Park, Teddington with just 13 runners and has grown exponentially since its conception with over 220 Parkruns across the UK, with even plans to take it world-wide.
There are currently schemes in Cardiff, Newport, Tredegar and Aberystwyth, with Carmarthen and Pontypridd soon to be set up.
Parkrun is a free, weekly 5 kilometre timed run which is open to everyone, whether you wish to run or walk the course; the website describes the scheme as ‘a non-commercial, free, feel-good, community based event’.
Project Co-ordinator Steve Brace was keen to stress that, “ this is not a race, although some athletes will by their nature run for times; it is aimed to be a social, running/jogging/walking activity as a step towards a healthier lifestyle, open to all.”
Brace added, “The other valuable feature of the scheme is the utilisation and recruitment of new volunteers to support the event, and the exit route to local clubs, should they wish to progress in their running, training and competition.”
If you wish to register for the Porthcawl parkrun or any other events around the UK, you can find details at www.parkrun.org.uk
*The 6 sports clubs involved in the organisation are Brackla Harriers; Bridgend AC; Cornelly Striders; Cwm Ogwr Runners; Pencoed Triathlon Club and Porthcawl Runners
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