Sunlight breaking through the trees in the New Forest
Winchester City Council, in partnership with Meadowside Leisure Centre and Whiteley Town Council, has set up the first parkrun in Whiteley on Saturday mornings at 9am.
parkrun is a weekly, free, timed 5km run and is safe and easy for anyone to take part in no matter of their age or ability. It takes place on safe tarmac paths and is especially suited to those with mobility problems. Children under 11 must run with an adult at all times and runners can bring one dog as long as it is kept on a short lead.
On Saturday 1st April, 344 runners of all ages enjoyed the three lap course around Meadowside Recreation Ground and the adjoining paths. 24 enthusiastic volunteers were on hand to set up the course, marshal the event and to record the times of all the finishers.
Event Director of Whiteley parkrun, Martin de Wied who co-ordinates the event said, “I have a long and happy association with the Whiteley community and many of my friends live here. When the opportunity came my way to support parkrun I could not resist the challenge of arranging this local event. The core team have supported me all the way and their enthusiasm has kept me feeling motivated and positive. I’m very proud of our achievement”.
Kathryn Burton one of the many helpful volunteers said “It was fantastic to see such a large turnout for the first event, many whom were taking part in their first run, there were lots of smiling, friendly people and a real community feel. I loved volunteering as a marshal – it was a great experience. I look forward to the next one”.
Calum Drummond, Sports Development Manager at Winchester City Council added “To be able to offer a weekly activity, completely free to the public, is exactly what we aspire to achieve and I hope that this will encourage more people to become active. It has taken months of planning and I can’t thank the volunteers and partners involved enough for all their hard work and support.’
For more information visit; www.parkrun.org.uk/whiteley or if you would like to be part of the volunteer team please email whiteleyhelpers@parkrun.com
