It did not feel like summer on Saturday morning at Frenchfield.
With a temperature feeling like 9 degrees Celsius some participants opted for extra layers. However it was calm and dry, ideal conditions for the 262 runners, joggers and walkers that took part.
At the pre-run briefing special mention was given to the 33 volunteers many of whom are here every week ensuring that we don’t miss out on our weekly ritual. Thank you for turning up every week whatever the weather is doing.
Because of its location in this beautiful part of the country there were several visitors from near and far. Scotland, Lincolnshire, Wiltshire and Kent were all represented and even visitors from distant Australia.
Whether you run, jog or walk the five kilometres of the Parkrun everyone has their own reasons for doing it. For some it is the only way to start a Saturday giving you a ‘good feel’ factor for the rest of the day.
For others it is the social aspect, meeting with other like-minded souls and maybe running together and chatting – how do people do that?! Some challenge themselves to keep improving on their times.
One person I spoke to said that initially they walked round in about 50 minutes but now, a year later, are getting round in just over thirty minutes. Hopefully, whatever the reason, it is an enjoyable experience for all.
On Saturday Carl Whinham was running his 100th Parkrun, his 19th at Penrith – well done Carl. Eight-year-old Leo Spooner was celebrating his 50th parkrun, the 40th one at Penrith.
Leo, from Warcop, did his first one in November 2021 in a time of 34:48. On Saturday he finished in 28:28. He loves the sprint finish and is an all-round outdoor and sports enthusiast. As well as running he especially enjoys mountain biking, sailing, climbing and cricket.
One of the great things about the Parkrun is that age is not a barrier. On Saturday there were many in the under 10 category like Leo and others in the age group 75 to79.
A first timer at Penrith led the field on Saturday – Joshua Selfridge from Petts Wood Runners in Kent – in a time of 17:57. First female was Lorna Mitchell from Greenock Glenpark Harriers in 23:25.
For the full results and to find out more please visit the website: www.parkrun.org.uk/penrith, the Facebook page or email [email protected].
