(Newcastle) Parkrun draws 86 participants despite chilly mist
Parkrunners braved mist and cold for the fun and fitness of their weekly run.
Newcastle – The Rooi Point Farm parkrun had a fantastic turnout of 86 participants this past Saturday, July 26.
Event organiser, Gwyneth Root, was ecstatic, having attributed the previous week’s poor turnout of just 25 participants to a bad case of ‘duvet-itess’ doing the rounds.
“We are so glad that our supporters crawled out of their warm beds to join us this week. We are here faithfully every Saturday of the month, waiting for our people to come and enjoy themselves,” said Root.
Commenting on what he described as the ‘mist-erious’ conditions at this week’s event, parkrunner, Wayne Baxter, remarked, “If you thought the weather was chilly, you’re right.
“If you thought it was misty, you’re also right.
“It was so misty that our usual ‘hide behind the mielies’ strategy had to be upgraded to ‘hide in the mist like a ninja’.
Sadly, the mielies were cut down last week, leaving our slower runners (and walkers) no choice but to embrace the misty invisibility cloak.
“Despite the Arctic vibes, 86 brave souls showed up, including some out-of-towners from Bloemfontein and Cape Town. We suspect they heard rumours about our legendary post-run coffee and came to investigate.”
Park runners remember a much-loved figure
Baxter also made mention of Johann Van Wyk, whom he described as ‘a beloved member of the parkrun family’. Van Wyk sadly passed away last week.
“Johann was always there to lend a hand (or a timer), and his absence will leave a huge gap at Rooi Point. Our deepest condolences go to the Van Wyk family.
“May he rest in peace, and may his spirit forever chase PBs in the great Parkrun in the sky.
“A heartfelt moment of silence was held by all in his memory,” said Baxter.
Root urged all residents to join parkrun, which takes place every Saturday at 8am at Rooi Point Farm.
The start is at the farm entrance across the road from Snips Bird Park. Snips offers free entry to the Bird Park to all parkrunners till 10 am every Saturday.
“Come breathe the fresh air, clear out your mind, get to know other people and just have downright jolly good fun,” urged Root.
ALSO READ: Parkrun warms spirits as runners embrace the chill at Rooi Point Farm
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