Great joy as Uvongo parkrun resumes
The last parkrun at this venue, before the Covid-induced break, was held in March 2020.
After a break of 91 weeks, Uvongo parkrun has resumed, much to the joy of hundreds of runners and walkers of all ages, plus an assortment of local dogs, who have missed these regular free, timed, weekly and extremely inclusive events.
This week’s parkrun saw 170 people lining up at the start, at St Michaels beach last Saturday at 8am. It was an emotional occasion for many of the participants as well as the army of volunteers who make Uvongo parkrun happen every week.
Regulars all over the world see their parkruns as far more than keep fit events. This global movement, which allows people of all physical capabilities to take part, has promoted friendships between people of all ages and walks of life as well as community spirit and volunteerism. It has encouraged communities to take back their green spaces and, above all, it has made keeping fit and healthy fun.
The last pre-Covid Uvongo parkrun was held on March 14, 2020 and these Saturday runs have been greatly missed. So has the social contact they offered and at the start of the parkrun last week there were smiles, greetings and virtual hugs (Covid protocol was maintained) all round.
The parkrun had particular significance for Willie Burgh, who has served as its event director since 2013. It was his last parkrun as event director as he will hand over this office to Shane Woolley next week. His huge contribution to Uvongo parkrun is greatly appreciated.
Uvongo star parkrunner Peter Greystone has obviously not been using the parkrun break to take it easy. He set a blistering pace, coming home in first place with a time of 16 minutes and 23 seconds. Melanie Jennett was the first woman home, with a time of 22:44.
Anyone of any age or capability is welcome to join the free weekly runs/walks at Uvongo and at any other event anywhere in the world. To register and obtain your barcode, go to www.parkrun.co.za. Download your barcode and bring it along to the parkrun events.
Please note Uvongo parkruns will not take place on December 25 and January 1.
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