Experience the Global Phenomenon of parkrun
Free and open to everyone, parkrun has captivated millions across the globe since its inception in 2004. Consequently, every Saturday morning, approximately 250,000 participants eagerly line up to start their timed 5km run in over 1700 different locations across 23 nations and five continents. As a result, a growing number are using these events as a reason to travel worldwide. Will you soon be among them?
How parkrun Began
Amateur club runner Paul Sinton-Hewitt was dealing with an injury and depression in 2004 when he conceived the idea of organizing a weekly 5km time trial in nearby Bushy Park, London. Thus, he aimed to spend time with his beloved running friends. On October 2nd of that year, the first event took place with 13 runners and three volunteers. Over the next couple of years, word spread rapidly, leading to a second weekly 5km time trial at Wimbledon Common in 2007. By the end of that year, there were six more sites throughout England and one in Zimbabwe. The number of events continued to flourish, and by the close of 2012, parkruns had expanded to include locations in Denmark, Australia, Poland, South Africa, Ireland, New Zealand, and the USA.
Running, Not Racing: A Story of Inclusivity and Simplicity
With no entry fees or run-day registration required, joining a parkrun is exceedingly easy. Participants need only register once online with parkrun, allowing them to print a single barcode that can be used repeatedly at any parkrun event. Arrive just a few minutes before the start, heed directions from the enthusiastic volunteers, and then get moving. After completing the 5km, participants receive an email or text with their finishing time.
It is crucial to note that these 5km time trials are not races; rather, they are participation-focused events designed to encourage people to get active on their Saturday mornings. The emphasis is on participation and personal progress, whether using a wheelchair, pushing a stroller, or running alongside a fit grandmother. Instead of awarding speed, recognition is given to those achieving significant milestones, with free ‘milestone’ T-shirts awarded after completing their 50th, 100th, 250th, and 500th runs. That being said, if you aim to beat your personal best 5km time, you will find plenty of supporters cheering you on as well.
Become a ‘Tourist’ at a parkrun
Somewhat jovial yet laid-back, the friendly atmosphere at parkruns has inspired regular participants to seek these uplifting vibes far from home. Some individuals incorporate their runs into their vacations abroad, while others plan their travels around exotic-sounding parkruns. Consequently, this popularity has prompted UK-based tour operator Exodus to integrate parkrun events into various adventure itineraries.
Participants traveling to a parkrun are referred to as ‘tourists’, and organizers especially appreciate those who journey the furthest to attend each event.
Complete a Local or Global Challenge
Many runners opt to combine travel with parkruns to tackle unique challenges, such as participating in runs in countries that start with each letter of the alphabet, achieving the title of ‘Alphabeteer’. Successfully finishing all parkruns in London awards the ‘Lon-done’ status, while those participating in 250 different global events join the esteemed Freyne club.
10 Notable parkruns to Experience Around the Globe
Bushy Park, London, England
No parkrun list would be complete without mentioning the one that ignited the movement. Located in London’s second-largest Royal Park, the route winds through the picturesque fields that once served as King Henry VIII’s hunting grounds.
Crissy Field, San Francisco, USA
On clear days, this bay-side run through Crissy Field offers scenic views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, while the return leg presents a stunning view of the distinctive San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz, and the beautiful Palace of Fine Arts.
Kangaroo Island, Australia
This parkrun is memorable due to the breathtaking coastal scenery and fascinating wildlife, including wallabies, kangaroos, seals, and even koalas found on this South Australian island.
Portrush, Northern Ireland
Experiencing a run on sand is both challenging and romantic, and this entire parkrun unfolds on the soft sands of Whiterocks beach. Runners are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Giant’s Causeway headland, the Skerries islands, and Dunluce Castle.
Cieszyn, Poland
Starting and finishing in the Polish town of Cieszyn, this parkrun crosses into the Czech Republic while skirting the banks of the River Olza, making it a truly unique experience.
East Coast Park, Singapore
Join the early morning parkrun at Singapore’s East Coast Park and dodge the Buddhist monks as it begins at 7:30 am to beat the heat of the day.
Colby, Wales
This parkrun involves three picturesque laps along trails in the National Trust property of Colby Woodland Garden, situated in a beautiful eastern valley of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Root44, Cape Winelands, South Africa
This parkrun takes place through a wine estate in the Western Cape’s famous Winelands region, showcasing stunning views over the vineyards and surrounding mountains.
Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
This parkrun circles Lost Lake and unfolds on forest trails at the base of Whistler, recognized as North America’s largest ski resort.
Main Beach, Queensland, Australia
As the first of Australia’s 350 plus parkruns, it remains one of the nation’s favorites. The scenic course runs along a beautiful stretch of beach on the Gold Coast.
