Parkrun makes a welcome return
Sleet can’t dampen the enthusiasm of 300 runners
HUNDREDS of keen athletes donned running shoes, thermals and waterproof jackets as Newbury Parkrun returned for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic.
Saturday’s event, which took place in bitterly cold conditions, saw more than 300 runners and walkers make their way to Greenham Common for the 9am start.
A cheer and applause greeted the pre-run briefing, with many participants saying it was lovely to be back.
As well as the regulars, there were around 55 first-timers, which included 40 visitors and 15 new Parkrunners.
The runners then took off, trudging their way through sleet, snow and heavy wind as Storm Arwen blew its way across the district.
The first finisher was Newbury Running Club member Danny Hawkins, who picked up where he left off after finishing first in the last Parkrun on March 14, 2020.
Anna Patterson was the first female finisher.
Writing a report for the Newbury Parkrun website, Robin Hunter said he’d attended “to support the future of my home Parkrun”.
He said: “As I’m sure many people did, I dragged myself
out of bed, listened to the rain lashing against the window, and thought ‘what on Earth am I doing?’
“Later, as I pulled into the Venture West car park, the sleet was horizontal with little flecks of ice.
“But, as I saw old friends, friendly volunteers and new faces, I knew exactly why I was there – to support the future of my home Parkrun.
“Nothing could dull the enthusiasm of being back at Newbury Parkrun, not even the edge of Storm Arwen.
“A big thank you to all those who volunteered today, especially having to stand around in the cold conditions.
“Remember that we now
need even more volunteers every week and your support is greatly appreciated.
“It was a joy to be able to run again at Greenham Common and the future of Newbury Parkrun is looking positive.”
The 5km run was allowed to return after permission was granted by the Greenham and Crookham Commons Commission for an initial sixmonth period.
New rules were introduced to protect the common, including no longer allowing dog owners to take their pooches along for the run.
Runners were also asked to stay on the paths, including to and from the start line.