It was a strong return for ParkRun in Yass this January 2021 since COVID shutdown the weekly free event back in March 2020.
The first event back on January 9th exceeded expectations with 101 people who ran, jogged or walked the course. Of those 101, 44 were first-timers to Riverbank. Another 48 returned in the cooler air on Jan16th to do it all again. Pre-COVID numbers were around 60-80 participants and organisers were pleased with the turnout of both participants and volunteers.
Volunteer Event Director Amanda Miller said a lot of organisation has gone on behind the scenes to ensure they were ready with COVID-safe management plans in place.
“We have worked hard in the background to get this running and make sure that we can hold this event in our community. It’s been tough for people, that Saturday morning became part of their routine, so we’re really excited to be bringing that back to Yass,” Ms Miller said.
Starting at Riverside Park Rotunda at 8 am, runners and walkers are invited to register before the run or scan the QR codes at the event. The 5-kilometre circuit is twice around the river and towards Yass High School.
“People can now put those new year’s resolutions into practice and come and join us for a walk, jog or run in the park,” Ms Miller enthused.
Wheelchair, children, pram and dog friendly, the course is designed for all levels from serious runners stepping out first to social participants positioned at the back of the group.
“ParkRun is for everyone. We’re a very inclusive event, so we have a tail walker at every event, so everyone finishes at their own pace, and no one finishes last; just no bikes or scooters and we usually go to a local café for coffee afterwards,” Ms Miller said.
The digital registration also helps provide feedback to runners and T-shirts are awarded for significant milestones marking how many events participants have run in.
“Parkrunners receive digital notification later in the day which tells them their time, how many ParkRuns they’ve done, and their best time,” Ms Miller added.
There is no need for special equipment or clothing. Organisers are asking participants to pre-register at www.parkrun.com.au to get a barcode to participate.
People can also volunteer. There is currently a core group of six volunteers coordinating and cleaning equipment to ensure the event is COVID-safe.
The first events back were made possible by the following volunteers: Lauren FITZSIMMONS, Amanda MILLER, Sarah TINK, Kendell WITT, Toni NEUHAUS, Sally TOWNSEND, Nicki LYNNE, Lisa POWICK, Christine AUGHEY, Jessica FIELDS, Jayne JOB, Jim HUTTON, Brooke WATSON, Alex ROSE, Nicki LYNNE, Alexander WEAVER, and Jodie KIDD.
