Parkrun is runaway success
MAESTEG’S new parkrun has been declared a runaway success after more than 170 people attended the inaugural event.
They ran 5km through Maesteg Welfare Park under the command of event director Emma Marshall.
Ogmore AM Huw Irranca-Davies and Bridgend County Borough Council’s (BCBC) cabinet member for social services Phil White also attended.
Bridgend Association of Voluntary Organisations (BAVO) worked with key members of the community, BCBC, Halo Leisure, Yr Hen Blwyth Running Club and parkrun to secure the event for the Llynfi Valley.
Funding was received through the Llynfi Valley 20 Project and BCBC.
BAVO’s chief executive Heidi Bennett said the parkrun organisation has established free, weekly 5km timed runs at various locations around the world.
Bridgend already has a 2k junior parkrun every Sunday at 9.30am at Newbridge Fields, while Porthcawl has a 5km event every Saturday morning at 9am on the seafront.
Heidi said: “We are extremely proud to have our very own one in Maesteg.
“The Llynfi Valley has a 20-year less healthy life expectancy than any other ward in the county borough, so this hopefully will help community members to be more aware about what they could do to help improve their own situations.”
BAVO co-ordinated a local response which has seen a core group of volunteers develop a small committee which is essential for any parkrun to happen.
Mr Irranca-Davies said: “A huge effort went into making it a great success with over 170 people from Maesteg, and visitors from further afield, taking part in the run and loads of smiling volunteers.
“It showed Maesteg Park at its very best – well done as always to Friends of Maesteg Park for their constant work – but also the friendliness and great organisation of the local organisers. Well done everyone and delighted to come along and support. It’s a regular thing now on Saturday mornings and all welcome. To catch-up visit the @maestegparkrun Facebook page.”
Maesteg parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9am at Maesteg Welfare Park on Heol Ty Gwyn, CF34 0BT. Runners must register online at parkrun.org.uk