The parkrun is known for its eminent influence by bringing the community together not only through staying active but also by achieving milestones.
These milestones motivate individuals to keep going and also attract new community members.
The Ruimsig parkrun celebrated several milestones on May 4 as runners, walkers and joggers were driven to enjoy a beautiful sunny day.
Three parkrunners achieved their 100th and 200th milestones as they savoured the moments of their dedication to the parkrun.
Among the three milestones achieved was editor of the Roodepoort Record/ Northsider Adéle Bloem. Having a full-time job keeping the community up to date with current affairs, Adéle stays devoted to not only serving her community but also keeping that relationship strong by being a committed parkrun volunteer.
“I started my parkrun journey in January 2018 at the Roodepoort parkrun at Len Rutter Park, and it took me just over an hour to complete my first 5km. As time went by, I progressed from just walking to slow jogs [with walks included] to faster jogging until I could complete the 5km course with just jogging.
“Considering that I do not run as much and have always claimed to be built for comfort rather than speed, I never would have imagined that I would develop an addiction to this weekly event.
“I completed 156 runs at Roodepoort, which is my home run, three runs at Krugersdorp’s Sterkfontein; 17 runs at Ruimsig; two runs at Modimolle, one run at Greenpoint Stadium; one run at Boksburg’s Homestead Lake; and the Poplar Street parkrun before it closed,” Adéle says.
She adds that the parkrun is a weekly fix that individuals can engage in to remain consistent and believe in themselves and encourages the community to be a part of this wonderful weekly activity.
“Becoming a better runner and individual than I was the day before, is my main driving force and the reason I participate in parkrun. Whether you complete it in twenty minutes or an hour, the parkrun is a free, safe, and enjoyable event where you may set and accomplish your own goals and receive encouragement and support along the way.”
