The first event started in 2004, the second one in 2007 and by 2010, it had grown to almost 30 events. By mid 2011, it has grown to approx 80 events so it is obviously growing rapidly at present.
A novel feature is that no numbers are issued. Runners are identified by a barcode which they wear and are then scanned at the finish line.
To find out more about these races, you can find plenty of info on the series website at http://www.parkrun.org.uk/home
Would something like this work in Ireland?
You could certainly imagine that it would be successful in someplace like the Phoenix Park in Dublin considering the high number of runners in the capital.
What about elsewhere in the country? In Cork? Limerick? Galway?
Sounds like a very interesting idea, perhaps such runs would help
ReplyDeletepeople who are unsure of their own
capabilities, and those like myself
who are struggling with training.
If there are any more people
wondering, I would be curious re
developments of park runs.
Park runs: feet first mizuno 5km winter series run in killareny national park from October. Series of four 5 k races over the same course. see the munster running blog.
ReplyDeletea park series in cork would be a welcome addition using the landfill. there is also ballincollig town park which could easily encompass a 5km and is used currently for orienteering events.