200 Plus Runners Vote York parkrun A Success

16 JAN2012

An astonishing 216 runners made York parkrun's debut event on Saturday (January 14) an overwhelming success. The unexpectedly large turnout which included contingents from other Yorkshire and north-east parkruns enjoyed the first run on a cold morning at the local racecourse.

Richard Weeks of University of York AC galloped round the track to be first home in an impressive time of 16:42 while Julia Jagger made all the right moves to finish fastest woman on 18:27. Sunderland Stroller Nicole Aitken (25:17) was mid-point runner and the field completed on 45:25.

National parkrun officials acknowledged the superb effort of the York parkrun team in handling what is expected to be confirmed as a record attendance for an initial parkrun event.

Check out the parkrun website for results at all UK events on Saturday. If you'd like to take part in parkrun - the 5K weekly timed run is free - you must register online in advance at the parkrun website.

Earlier in the week running in York had received another boost with the launch of the I Can Run York programme. The 8 week programme is aimed at anyone wanting to become more active and enjoy running, particularly beginners, people returning after a break, those doing a charity event or just wanting to improve their health.

The programme started on Monday (January 9) at the Marriott Hotel, Tadcaster Road - 6.30pm and on Thursday (January 12) at Rowntree Park/Millennium Bridge - 7.00pm and both evenings attracted enthusiastic groups of new runners.

The groups are led by qualified coaches and leaders who offer great motivation and advice. Running with a friendly social group is not only safer but a great way to meet new people. Much better than running alone especially on dark winter evenings! Places are still available on both Monday and Thursday nights.

The I Can Run York programme is run by RunYork and is part of Run England, the recreational running programme. For more information contact Ashley Little (07836 320311) or Richard Smith (07846 189103). The I Can Run York programme is an ideal way for new runners to prepare for events like York parkrun.