Letterkenny parkrun celebrated its 4th anniversary on Saturday. On Election Day 2020, parkrun enjoyed a large turn-out with 113 walkers, joggers and runners completing the 5K. Coincidentally this was the exact number that participated in the first Letterkenny parkrun in 2016!
Despite the strong winds heralding the imminent arrival of Storm Ciara, all enjoyed the event including seven first timers and many returning to celebrate four very successful years of parkrun in Letterkenny.
In that time 2,373 unique participants have completed the 5K that is held every Saturday morning at 9.30 in the grounds of St. Conal’s and the Town Park. Many “parkrunners” are regular participants resulting in a total of 74,255 kilometres covered over the four years. In the past year they have welcomed many Park Walkers and we look forward to growing this group in the coming year.
“There is no such thing as a typical parkrunner – all ages participate from those enjoying retirement to parents pushing buggies; runners and walkers; groups of students and work colleagues – all form part of the unique parkrun community. Over its short time in existence we have welcomed visitors and returning Donegal natives from the USA, New Zealand, India, South Africa, many EU countries and the UK,” said a spokesperson for the group.
Bishop Alan McGuckin with parkrun event director Margaret O’Donnell and Reuban O’Dómhnaill celebrating the Letterkenny parkrun’s 4th Anniversary.
The traditional birthday cake was cut afterwards as participants enjoyed a welcome tea / coffee in the nearby Vestry.
Parkrun is only possible with the generosity of the Volunteers who come along each week to set out the course; record times and finishing places and marshal to ensure the event is safe for all. The Event Director and Weekly Run Directors paid special tribute to this special group within the parkrun community. The Directors also acknowledged the provision of the venue for the event from Donegal County Council, the HSE and Cairde le Chéile for the use of the Vestry.
Why not come along and try out the 5K? Registration is free at www.parkrun.com and the unique barcode issued can be used at any of the parkruns anywhere in the world! We have 5 parkrun locations in Donegal – Falcarragh, Buncrana, Dungloe and Narin Beach as well as Letterkenny. Whether you run, jog or walk you can be assured of a warm welcome.
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