Tags: People of parkrun, Vhi
Brought to you by our friends at Vhi, in this week’s people of parkrun entry, we hear from Bernadette Egan, an Administrator from Tralee parkrun.
Name: Bernadette Egan
Occupation: Administrator
Local parkrun: Tralee
How did you get involved in parkrun?
My Dad started participating in parkrun back in 2018. Seeing how much he enjoyed it, I had made it my new year’s resolution for 2019 to join parkrun. I have loved it from the very first day!
What do you love about parkrun?
Tralee parkrun is like an extended family to me. Everybody there is so friendly, supportive and genuinely a great bunch of people. I love the commitment shown by all the volunteers, and everyone participates in a friendly and supportive manner.
Who do you participate with?
I participate in parkrun with my family.
Any parkrun milestones / achievements you would like to share?
I reached my 50th parkrun milestone last year. I also have volunteer 10 credits and counting.
How has parkrun impacted positively on you?
As someone who struggles with anxiety, parkrun has had a very positive impact on my life in many ways. It has significantly increased my confidence in meeting and talking to new people as well.
Who is your dream parkrun running buddy?
My partner James. parkrun is where we first met, and the rest is history!
What was your best parkrun experience?
I love watching the achievements of all my family, from milestones to personal bests, and all the laughter and fun along the way.
What was the funniest parkrun moment?
My partner James equalled his own PB, then came back for his son Stuart and ran him home for a PB. James then turned and came back for me and ran me home for a PB! He only crossed the finish line once of course. Everyone was cheering and laughing because he made it look so easy!
What advice would you give to someone who’s never been to parkrun?
Give it a go! You are participating with such like-minded people. Some will run, some will jog, and some will walk. At the end of the day, 5K is still 5K, no matter how long it takes or what your ability is.
Anything else you’d like to share?
parkrun has kept me going through some very tough times. It’s great to know that every Saturday I will be meeting up with such a friendly and genuinely nice bunch of people. I would be lost without parkrun!
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