Tags: COVID-19
Last Saturday we were delighted to see parkrun events in Japan and Western Australia restart. Alongside parkruns currently operating in New Zealand, other Australian states and Territories, and the Falkland Islands, we saw 89 events welcome more than 8,500 walkers, joggers and runners, with over 900 volunteers, almost one hundred of whom were volunteering with us for the very first time.
It is absolutely heartwarming to see some of our parkrun communities coming back together again. Bit by bit, we are getting there.
This weekend parkruns in Guernsey, Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and in the Isle of Man will also reopen, taking us to more than 100 events happening across the globe. And we are pleased to announce the expected return of parkrun events in Namibia, on 14 November.
We continue in conversations with our stakeholders, global staff team, local teams and volunteers to progress, where we can, any further opportunities to bring parkruns back in our other territories.
In the northern hemisphere, as winter encroaches, many of our regions are experiencing a rise in new infections and, in turn, an increase in restrictions. Our commitment to monitoring the situation remains, as does our work with relevant government and public health bodies to make the right decision at the right time; to bring parkrun back to those communities where it is safe and sensible to do so, and where current guidelines allow.
This week will mark the end of #parktoberfest, and it’s been wonderful to see so many parkrunners coming together to be active, social and outdoors, logging significant numbers of (not)parkruns. More than 6,000 people who have yet to complete an actual parkrun have now logged a (not)parkrun. I’d like to personally welcome them to the parkrun family.
With the passing of each day we see change across all 22 countries in which we operate. Our mission to make the world a healthier and happier place holds as firm as ever, and our belief that parkrun has a significant role to play in mental and physical wellbeing continues to drive us every day.
Thanks, as always.
Tom Williams
Chief Operating Officer
parkrun Global
You can wear anything when you join in at parkrun – a suit, shorts, jeans or even fancy dress. We want everyone to enjoy parkrun and being comfortable in what you’re wearing is crucial. If you’re going to move a lot, walk, or run you might want to consider using a sports bra. We chatted…
First and foremost, we all know that parkrun is about taking part, community, being social together outdoors, and maybe grabbing a coffee afterwards. But sometimes, you want to aim for a personal best (PB)! We share some top tips from long-distance runner and regular Australian parkrunner Steve Moneghetti about how to give yourself the…
