Barnsley parkrun Off To A Flyer

24 JAN2011

Barnsley parkrun got off to a flying start when 79 runners took part in the initial event at Locke Park. As well as being well supported by local running clubs (20 plus Barnsley Harriers were in the starting line-up), participants came from as far afield as Eastbourne, Stowmarket, Lincoln and Nottingham.

The 3 lap course began with .5k on the flat, and a .5k climb to Locke Park Tower, the highest point in Barnsley before a .5 k descent towards the finish. The consensus of opinion, from veterans of the parkrun circuit is that the Barnsley parkrun is one of the most challenging and therefore rewarding. Locals might say 'it's not as hard as a shift down pit!'

The course is run on well maintained tarmac paths and is permanently marked with yellow arrows in the trees and on the ground, so it's easy to run the course on non-event days.

First event winner was Ian Kimpton of Lincoln Wellington AC in an impressive 15:56, John Broom representing Barnsley Harriers took second place in 18:16. Steve Darby (Unattached) placed third in a time of 19:34.

First woman was Dawn Broom of Barnsley Harriers in a time of 20:24, 16 seconds ahead of Lesley Leggett (Denby Dale Travellers). Jenny Lingrell, of Barnsley Harriers (22:08) was third.