FOUNDER TURNS OUT FOR 20TH BIRTHDAY OF PARKRUN IN BUSHY PARK
The Founder of the parkrun Paul Sinton-Hewitt led the celebrations to mark the 20th birthday of the event in Bushy Park on Saturday.
A total of 1818 athletes turned out for the famous 9am 5k run around the park – on the biggest fields ever apart from the 6000 who ran in the 1000th event on August 31.
The fun runners were supported by 124 volunteers and the fastest time was clocked by James Hoad who completed the 5k in 15m 28seconds..
Gold medal winning Paralympian Ellie Simmonds was on hand to give her support to the runners.
Mr Sinton-Hewitt CBE launched the first parkrun in October 2004 with just 13 runners and now there are 2500 events in 23 countries including the latest one in Lithuania.
He said on the anniversary:“Twenty years ago, we started with just 13 runners and five volunteers in Bushy Park, united by a simple passion for running and community.
“Today, parkrun has grown into a global movement, with millions of participants in 23 countries.
“What began as a small gathering has become a powerful force for good, promoting health, happiness, and togetherness.
“I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come, and even more excited for the future as we continue to inspire people of all abilities to get moving, connect with others, and give back through the spirit of charity and community.”