Penrith parkrun number 563 attracted 347 runners, walkers and joggers on a beautiful sunny morning.
In addition, there were 37 volunteers whose commitment is much appreciated week-in-week-out.
One volunteer celebrating a very special milestone was the voice of Penrith parkrun, Andrew Richardson, celebrating his 500th volunteering role.
Normally he talks us through the pre-run briefing but on this occasion he handed over the reins to Sarah Wright, probably not wishing to blow his own trumpet!
In pre-parkrun days Andrew was involved in setting up sport programmes for the community.
Eden Council then invited him to take a leading role in launching a parkrun in Penrith. The first one took place on February 8 2014 with 116 participants.
One aspect of Penrith parkrun that makes it so worthwhile for Andrew is the charities that are supported – MNDA, Parkinson’s and 5k Your Way.
He enjoys the great atmosphere, meeting people and seeing how much parkrun means to them – for some it’s the highlight of their week. He likes a bit of banter too.
Kerry Grinbergs hit another milestone running in her 400th parkrun. She started running at the age of 18 and sometimes still thinks she’s that age 30 years later!
She hated sport at school but decided she wanted to get fitter so started running on her own along Beacon Edge.
About 12 years ago she joined Eden Runners and has made many friends since then. Running is a big part of her life. She was the 5th female home on Saturday in a time of 22:58.
Long distance visitors were Ding Khoo and husband Phil Pomford from Singapore – Phil is originally from Liverpool.
He has recently completed the Hamburg Ironman event which involved a 3.8km swim followed by a 180km bike ride and finally a full marathon.
He achieved a personal best time of 10 hours 42 minutes. Ding has done marathons in Seoul, Japan and Stockholm as well as ultra marathons. They were about to enjoy a family weekend before heading back to Singapore on Tuesday.
Global Awareness Day for Motor Neurone Disease was on Sunday June 21 so MNDA tops were worn by Viv, Wendy, Shaun and Gill to draw it to people’s attention.
Carl Stevenson from St Albans Striders was first to finish in 18:04; first female was Emily Pickering, who is in the 11-14 age category, in 19:57. Well done both and thank you to all who took part either as participants or volunteers.
For the full results and to find out more, visit the website at www.parkrun.org.uk/penrith, the Facebook page or email [email protected]
