There may be 50 words for snow but how many for our descriptions of rain? Heavy, persistent, torrential, cats and dogs, a deluge, pouring, coming down in stair-rods – I could go on.
Saturday’s hardy team of 33 volunteers were not deterred though, arriving at the course whilst still dark, checking running conditions were safe and setting up the course.
In the soggy conditions 174 people ran, jogged and walked the course, of whom 33 were first timers and 12 recorded new Personal Bests. Finish times ranged from 1st place 17:23 (Jonathan Cox) and 1:08 (our tail walkers – Heather Heron and Jo Falconer).
Full results can be found at www.parkrun.org.uk/penrith/results/latestresults/
Would you like to help at Parkrun? Volunteers are always needed and there is a variety of ways to get involved. Today’s Run Director, Alison Rowsell, has volunteered on over 50 occasions, ranging from Run Director, Communications Person, Marshal, Finish Tokens, Funnel Manager, Finish Token Support, Tail Walker, Volunteer Co-ordinator and Run Report Writer.
In the “drenching rain” I caught up with Alison, who has completed 157 Parkruns since 2014 and asked what she likes about volunteering; “When I’m injured volunteering means I am still taking part, plus I like to give back to Parkrun which has given me so much especially in terms of inclusion and belonging.
“When I saw the weather this morning, I was really glad we had decided not to go to Edinburgh as planned and could go to Parkrun instead.
“We would have been wet and cold before we got in the train and then the train was cancelled North of Carlisle. Today I was Run Director which involves being visible, talking to people especially visitors, encouraging the Parkrunners and filling in where necessary.
“Today, for example, the finish run was really slippery so I went to near to the turn for home and advised runners to be careful on the corners.
“I was very glad of my DryRobe!”
To get involved speak to any volunteer on Saturday or message Penrith Parkrun – details at www.parkrun.org.uk/penrith/volunteer/
Penrith Parkrun was joined by 5kYour Way – A support group with a difference.
5k Your Way is a community-based initiative to encourage those living with and beyond cancer, families, friends and those working in cancer services to walk, jog, run, cheer or volunteer at a local 5k Your Way parkrun event on the last Saturday of every month.
For details see 5kyourway.org/ and look out for the banner near the start and finish area on Saturday 27th November, when Shiona and Sarah will be on hand for support.
And finally…
The “Pacers” are back. If you are looking to improve your time, why not follow one of these lovely people?
