Feedback from the Field

206 parkrunners gathered on Saturday to celebrate a significant milestone for one of Ashgrove’s much-loved Run Directors. It was the 250 milestone, Ashgrove’s first and, in keeping with the shirt colour to be awarded, green was the theme colour of the day.

The briefing took on a festive air with congratulatory speeches, green cupcakes beautifully displayed, green outfits everywhere and tutus aplenty amongst those whose fashion sense took second-place for the occasion.

And so it was that Jo Cootes modestly accepted the appreciation of all, including from husband Chris and her young family, all of whom have been regulars at Ashgrove parkrun from its inception. Equally impressive as her many runs are the 64 occasions on which Jo has volunteered at parkrun events, her role as a foundation director of Ashgrove parkrun and before that as a director of Mitchelton parkrun. Yet Jo never thinks she does anything extraordinary.

To mark the occasion, fellow Run Director Katherine Jackman recited a limerick to the gathering:

There once was a Lady called Jo
Who was always on the go
She loved parkrun
She’s an amazing mum
She was the brains behind this whole show!

and presented Jo with 5 x ‘50’ balloons – green of course – to carry around the course, no doubt to the surprise of the unprepared public who share part of our course.

Jo was given the honour of counting down the start of the run, enthusiastically charging out of the blocks and leading the field with tutu and balloons flying. Having peaked unexpectedly during the first few seconds, Jo found herself in unfamiliar territory and saw no reason to stay there, selflessly easing back to allow 137 other runners to pass and enjoy the honour of beating her to the finish, albeit without her stylish glidepath as she sailed over the finish line.

Jo’s ambitions have not been dampened by her placing – after all, it’s a run, not a race – and we wait with great expectation to see what parkrun surprises, PBs and milestones she still has in store.

You’re an inspiration, Jo. Congratulations and thank you.

Ken Swanwick
parkrunner A1883949