After what has felt like an entirely autumnal week, with plenty of rain, gusty winds, and changing leaves, Saturday dawned bright, not so breezy and even quite warm providing excellent conditions for the 31 volunteers and 201 runners and walkers who gathered at Frenchfield.
This time of year is often a favourite for runners as a summer of training can bear fruit in terms of form in the now slightly cooler conditions, the 19 personal bests achieved bore this out this week.
Victoria Lawson was the first woman home in 20 minutes exactly, with the first finisher home overall coming from the veteran male age group of 60-64 in a hugely impressive 18.06, was Stuart Robinson.
The appeal of parkrun to all age groups was evident with Julia King, Eden Runner, and parkrun stalwart, who had recently turned 70, completing her 273rd parkrun.
Also going around the course pushed in his buggy by his aunt, Zoe Forbes, was one-year-old Aiden Forbes. It was his first parkrun – clearly proving it’s good to start young!
Alongside participants of all ages, Penrith had visitors taking part from Scotland and Lancaster – tourism and fitting in a parkrun is often part of a holiday or visit to the area.
Parkrun has recently celebrated its 18th birthday with the introduction of parkwalk, with walking being a great way of soaking up the parkrun atmosphere, getting the opportunity to chat to people, being active, and something that whole families or friendship groups can do together. It’s also one of the best entry points into parkrun, especially for those who may be taking their first steps towards healthier and happier lifestyles.
And the tailwalkers will always be the last ones to finish! So if you want to come along and enjoy a walk, meet friendly volunteers and be encouraged around the course – come along ready for 9am next Saturday!
