Guest Post: Midleton Greenway parkrun ...by Pat Walsh

 ** Midleton Greenway parkrun ** 

Saturday 1st February 2025 marks a new departure in running in Midleton, with the launch of a new parkrun 5k for the area. This long awaited venture is an exciting development on the newly opened Midleton to Youghal Greenway. This weekend marks the end of Winter and beginning of Spring. What better way to celebrate St Brigid's Feast.

Flat course out for 2.5k and back the same way to the finish. A flatter, easier course cannot be found anywhere in the country.

I have written before of the benefits of parkruns and how they are not competitive, no prizes, and the option of staying anonymous at the finish if you so wish. They are free to enter and people of all ages and abilities are most welcome. You only ever need to register online once, for free and that's it.  

In an expanding town and rapidly developing area this is a fantastic amenity to have. 

Running in recent years has become a cross-ages sport, as so many people recognize the health and mental benefits of some physical exercise in the fresh air. There are social opportunities to get out and meet others, chat and smile, share some thoughts and go home a better person. 

The start and finish line is where the Midleton Greenway begins next to the Railway station.

There is parking available but it is limited so some co-operation is required.
Car-pool where possible.
Walk, jog or cycle from some other parking area that you are familiar with to the starting area. 
Cycle rack is right next to the start line, so your bike will be safe.
Please don’t park in some estate and be a nuisance to the residents.
Remember the Train will be working so don’t be in the way of people using this facility.

The parkrun is sharing the Greenway with others who may wish to walk, run, cycle, or do whatever leisure activity the Greenway is designed for. So please please be conscious of others who will be using the Greenway but not taking part in the 5k.

In this day and age it hardly needs saying but I will remind you, take home your litter. 

The long-term prospects for this run depend on striking a balance between the Railway Company, The Local Authorities responsible for the Greenway and local residents who may be inconvenienced by this event. If you are going, then please play your part and be a Charm Ambassador. 

Do not go home without saying thanks to one of the many volunteers who made this event happen. 

I look forward to seeing some of you there. In my current state, I’m reduced to a volunteer role which I will gladly do. Please say hello and we might even get a photo. 

Midleton Greenway parkrun ... https://www.parkrun.ie/midletongreenway/

Have a lovely Bank Holiday weekend.

#PWR