From 6:15am on any Saturday morning, Gwyneth and Athol Root can be found at Rooi Point Farm; checking the course, setting up tables, and guiding volunteers

By 8:00am – it’s all systems go for those wanting to run, walk, or stroll through breathtaking scenery.

Gwyneth, a retired teacher, and Athol, a retired red-seal motor mechanic, became joined Parkrun in 2016.

“We began our journey as runners and then became volunteers. We soon moved on to organising the volunteers and eventually became the event directors of Rooi Point Farm Parkrun,” the couple said.

During the Covid-19 shutdown, the Roots – like many other active parkrunners- kept up their fitness even though they could not participate in organised events.

“We and many others began to run the ‘garden route’ where we could walk around our gardens to keep fit,” Gwyneth told the Advertiser. With the easing of restrictions, Parkruns returned, attracting more participants than before.

When asked about the ideal Parkrun location, the Roots agreed it should be accessible for the elderly and suitable for big-wheeled prams.

There should also be bathroom facilities, and of course, a place where you can buy a coffee.

They explored multiple locations, but Rooi Point seemed to have ticked all the boxes.

Athol then set about draining the course of excessive water using a pipe system to ensure the route was safe for all.

With a rooster crowing in the background and kittens curled on their laps, the Roots expressed heartfelt thanks to John Watson and his family for allowing the Parkrun to take place every Saturday morning.

Gwyneth added that the course remains open during the week, free of charge, for anyone wishing to walk or cycle.

With Rooipoint also being a working farm, those using the route are urged not to litter and to ensure that all gates are closed. Riding on the dam walls is also not permissible.

Asked about why the event is so popular, the Roots stressed the vital role volunteers play in ensuring the smooth running of each event.

“Parkrun International is no Mickey Mouse operation; it is a well-oiled machine overseeing more than 2,300 Parkruns across the globe,” said Gwyneth.

She added that one of Parkrun’s greatest strengths is that it remains free for life and accessible to all.

As former volunteers themselves, the Roots know all too well the effort required to ensure a smooth Saturday morning event.

“We are blessed to have five amateur photographers on hand to capture your fun-filled Parkrun experience for our Facebook page. Many other Parkruns rely solely on cellphone photos,” the Roots said.

A unique feature of the Rooi Point Farm Parkrun is the fresh fruit participants often bring from their own trees.  Occasionally, someone even provides ice cream for everyone to enjoy during the summer months.

The Roots reminded participants to stay well hydrated during the hot season, adding that they are exploring the possibility of changing the start time for summer events.

“All are invited to join us at the Rooi Point Farm Parkrun at Snips.”

“Please like the Parkrun’s Facebook page: Rooi Point Farm Parkrun, and if you wish to register as a Parkrun member, go to parkrun.co.za/register.”

ALSO READ: Ramakrishna Clinic provides vital healthcare in Newcastle

The news provided to you in this link has been investigated and compiled by the editorial staff of the Newcastle Advertiser, a sold newspaper distributed in the Newcastle area. Please follow us on Youtube and feel free to like, comment, and subscribe. For more local news, visit our webpage, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and follow us on our WhatsApp Channel