welcome to this week's newsletter
In this week’s newsletter we launch Gatton parkrun, ask you to help us and hear from an inspiring North Lakes parkrunner.
On Saturday we officially launched Gatton parkrun in Queensland’s Lockyer Valley. As many of you may remember this region was devastated by floods in 2011 and is only now starting to fully recover so I’m really proud that new Event Director Ingred Impekoven has had the initiative to bring parkrun to her local community. Professor Alan from Wynnum parkrun attended the launch in my absence and writes –
Congratulations to Ingred Impekoven and the team at Gatton parkrun. After 5 weeks of 'trial' runs involving 240 finishers and weekly totals of 55, 47, 34, 65, 39 the first 'official' run last Saturday drew a massive 94 parkrunners, 86 of whom had never run at another parkrun before! Most new events I visit have a good number of tourists but to get so many 'locals' to a launch event made it a really special occasion with a great friendly atmosphere. Since Tim and I visited the first trial 6 weeks ago Ingred has refined and improved the course and made it even more scenic and challenging (two hills). Trust me if you are touring around SE Queensland you must add this onto you list of 'must-do' parkruns - you will be assured of a warm welcome by Ingred and the Gatton parkrunners and there is to plenty to do and see in the Lockyer Valley region, so why not make a day or weekend of it.
Well done Ingred and special thanks to Rachael Palmer and Lockyer Valley Regional Council for their support and funding to help get Gatton parkrun ‘up and running’.
Also on Saturday Sandgate parkrun Event Director Vanessa Gibson, along with Mitchelton parkrun ED Gab Edmonds and Logan River parkrun ED Sarah Logan, represented parkrun at the Utopia Women’s Wellness event in Brisbane. Vanessa was asked to speak about her life as a ‘Mum on the Run’ and you can view her inspiring presentation here. Thanks Vanessa, Gab and Sarah for giving up your Saturday to spread the parkrun message.
As you all know parkrun in Australia has grown off the charts over the last few months. With more events comes many more runners which is obviously a good thing however one of the biggest issues we face is being able to fund this ongoing growth and sometimes, something has to give. So unfortunately at the end of this month we will no longer be able to provide the free 10 club t-shirts to our junior runners who complete 10 parkruns. Any outstanding t-shirts will of course still be honoured and any juniors just shy of reaching their 10th parkrun have 2 weeks left to do so! Starting from August, juniors who join the 10 club will receive certificates in recognition of their achievement so I hope this goes some way to filling the void. For those of you wondering why this decision has had to be made now consider this… When the 10 club t-shirts were introduced in the UK in 2007 only 64 were presented. Fast forward to 2013 and the predicted number is 5,169!!!
Lastly I want to give a special shout out to the Kimpton family from Hull parkrun in the UK who are touring Australia for 5 weeks, visiting Main Beach, St Peters, Ginninderra, Highlands and Albert Melbourne parkruns. Simon (158), Pat (136) and daughter Sarah (104) are all members of the 100 club as shown in the photo below.
Happy running,
Tim from parkrun Australia (get in touch)
Were you a first timer last weekend, or did you run a personal best? We would love to hear about your experience on email, @parkrun_au or on Facebook.
The parkrun show Australia
We are very excited to announce the latest addition to the parkrun Australia family - the parkrun show Australia - hosted by Dave Robertson (Newy ED) and Russ Jefferys (GinninderraED)!
For those of you not familiar with the parkrun show, it's a weekly podcast available on iTunes that covers everything happening in the parkrun world. Hosted by Danny Norman and Nicola Forwood in the UK it has quickly built up a cult following for its humorous take on all things parkrun. With the growth of parkrun globally, the time is now right to launch our own show here in Australia. We're not in competition with the UK, rather, we'll be following the same tried and tested format - much like parkrun itself.
Every week Robbo and Russ will be looking for the quirky, the wonderful, the inspirational, the brilliant and the bonkers from around the grounds up and down the country. So if you have something going on you think they should be aware of, feel free to hit them up on Facebook or Twitter.
Please like these pages and encourage everyone to look out for episode 1 coming soon...
This is going to be a lot of fun
How can you help us?
As mentioned above parkrun in Australia is growing… fast! As a result we are at a point where our Event Directors, volunteers and even myself are all pretty stretched however I’m sure that amongst the wider parkrun community there are many of you with time, will, skill and connections to really make a big contribution. As such I want to put the call out for volunteers to assist in any of the following:
1. Accountant / Auditor - Keeping parkrun Australia’s accounts up to date is one of the key elements of us maintaining our incorporated not for profit status. I have recently purchased MYOB online and am slowly integrating it into my weekly routine however I’m sure that I’m taking twice as long and using only half of the features that an accountant familiar with this package would do. On top of this we are required to have our books audited for the first time this year, a process that I’m told can be very time consuming! So parkrunners, can anyone help me?
2. Travel / Accommodation - One of the biggest costs we incur is travel and accommodation. Being such a massive country almost every event launch requires significant spend on flights and hotel accommodation, plus all of the miscellaneous expenses that go along with this. I have been trying, thus far in vain, to secure in-kind support for this so if any of you are in positions of influence at any of the major airlines or hotel chains please do get in touch.
3. Social Media - I really enjoy engaging with parkrunners through Facebook and Twitter however this too can be very time consuming. I would love to have a small team of social media savvy parkrunners to help me with this. This would be an ideal role for a student looking to gain experience in developing social media strategies and campaigns, and I’m sure we can find ways to make it worth your while through references etc.
4. Other sponsors, supporters & partners - We are continually on the lookout for like minded organizations who wish to get involved with parkrun as either: national sponsors - currently adidas, Stockland & Suncorp Bank; national supporters - those who provide in-kind services only; and local partners - such as Baker Love Lawyers in Newcastle and CRE8IVE in Canberra. If your company fits any of the above please get in touch.
5. Think local - There are many ways you can support your local parkrun event. Aside from the regular Saturday volunteer roles, most events can use additional help with tasks like newsletter writing, social media, local PR etc. If you feel you can contribute in this way please speak to your Event Director at your next parkrun or contact them through their event website.
6. Donations - One of our core principles is that parkrun should always be free to the runner; our runners should never feel compelled or obligated to pay to take part in our events. Despite this (maybe because of this), many runners have expressed a desire to show their appreciation by making a donation. As such we are in the process of developing the parkrun Australia donation system with the idea being that runners will be able to donate specifically to the upkeep of their home event. Watch this space.
Bobbi’s Story...
I had been overweight my whole life. I finally ‘peeked’ in May of 2009 at 22 years old and 114kg. The breaking point was flying to Melbourne, struggling to fit down the aisle or in my seat and unable to use the toilet. At the time I had 2 young children and wanted to instill good eating habits and a healthy lifestyle in them. So I made the decision, I had to change my life! With good old-fashioned healthy food, portion control and physical activity I slowly began making progress. Falling pregnant in August 2009, giving birth in April 2010 was a pleasant bump in the road, but did not hinder my progress. In August 2010, at 85kgs, I registered for my first ever fun run, the 5km Bridge to Brisbane. My
Uncle had done it the year before and encouraged me to do it with him. I did in 51:28 - I was so proud, I didn't think I would even finish it! The feeling I got crossing that finish line changed my life, I wanted to feel it again! In September 2011, weighing about 70kg, I ran in my 2nd Bridge to Brisbane, this time I did 5km in 36:27! I had made huge progress, and was so proud of myself! In March 2012 I hit my 60kg goal and I managed to get to 58kg in the months that followed. In total I had lost a massive 56kg, and I had taken by BMI from 42 to 21! In July 2012, I ran the 5km Jetty2Jetty - I finished in 26:04! In September 2012, I ran my 3rd Bridge to Brisbane in 24:44! I began to run around my local area, once a week or so. I started to feel more confident and strong.
My obesity brought with it many health problems, most of them disappeared as the weight came off. But one thing that remained was my excess skin around my abdomen area. I saw a plastic surgeon, and he agreed no amount of exercise would correct my problem. In September 2012 I underwent an ‘abdominoplasty’ where 1.4kg of excess skin was removed from my tummy. It was not without its complications. A normal overnight stay turned into a weeklong hospital stay, 5 blood transfusions and a prolonged recovery. I realised just how much running meant to me, once I was unable to do it. 3 months with NO EXCERCISE. It was tough!
Once given the go-ahead from the doctor, I wasted no time. In January 2013 I ran the Resolution Run in 35:08. My recovery had set me back, but I was just happy to be running again. On the way home, a friend told me about North Lakes parkrun. I registered as soon as I got home and ran the following week! It has now become a staple in my week, I look forward to Saturdays, I love parkrun and I wonder what I ever did without it! I encourage my friends and family to join me, and a few weeks ago I brought my 7yr old daughter along with me. She did an amazing job 47:58, she made me so proud! We finished in last place, but in my eyes we came first! Now, I try to get out and run as much as my busy life allows, about 3-4 days a week - Plus my Saturday morning parkrun. It has been a long journey, but one I would not change! I have learnt much about myself and my capabilities, I have a totally new life! I am approaching 27yrs old, mother of three beautiful girls and finally living life the way I was meant to! I couldn't be happier! My current parkrun PB is 24:57. My new goal is to be fit and healthy, for life and to encourage others do the same. North Lakes parkrun is helping me achieve that. It is such a great atmosphere and I look forward to volunteering in the future.
I have achieved what I never thought was possible, I AM A RUNNER! Anything is possible, if you never give up! Thank you North Lakes parkrun and the entire world-wide parkrun family!!!
Bobbi from North Lakes parkrun
Bridge to Brisbane
In 2013 parkrun is an official training partner for Bridge to Brisbane. This is an amazing partnership as it guarantees us exposure to thousands of new runners who will hopefully become part of the parkrun family!
If you are planning on running B2B this year then we invite you to join the parkrun team, details are as follows: 5km | Team Name - parkrun 5k Team | Team No. – 72338; 10km | Team Name – parkrun | Team No. – 58568.
Upcoming Event Launches, Anniversaries & Cancellations
Our 19th launch for the year is coming up on August 31 at Cairns. Other confirmed launch dates include: September 7 for Warwick; and September 28 for Merimbula & Toowoomba.
Coomera & Claisebrook Cove celebrate their 1st anniversaries on Saturday, August 3.
The Pointy End
Who are you? Albert Melbourne parkrunner Chris White.
How the hell do you run so fast? In all honesty, I just enjoy running a lot. I am also impatient and quite competitive, so I guess I just want to get round whatever course I am running as quickly as possible!
How many km do you run in an average training week? I vary a lot in my km per week, depending on what I am training for. At the moment, I am at about 40km a week.
What type of training do you typically do? I just enjoy being out and about, so it’s usually just straightforward running, rather than intervals or weights. I will be changing that up over the coming months though, as I am going to be trying a few triathlons at the end of the year, and hopefully a half ironman too.
How long have you been running and have you always been so damn good? I have been running since I was a kid, but always in addition to playing another sport. I played soccer for years and always found running a useful addition. My dad ran marathons when so I was always interested in beating his times at some point! My first serious race was a 20km in Brussels about ten years ago and I finished in 1hr55, I am now at 1hr27 for a half marathon. I am really pleased that I have improved quite a bit over the past 18 months and that is in large part down to parkrun.
What is you favourite distance? I really enjoy marathon distance but I think half marathon is the best. It’s a balance between going for it and pacing yourself. You have to respect the distance and if you want a decent run, to get your training and preparation right.
Do you have a coach and do you train with a squad? No, I don't have a coach or a squad, but to be honest I consider the parkrun gang to be my squad. We all keep each other going and set new challenges all the time. It is the most supportive group I have ever experienced.
How much faster would you like to go? I have 4 main goals at the moment: 1. Sub 1:25 half marathon; 2. Complete a half ironman; 3. A new parkrun PB; and 4. Qualify for Boston Marathon.
What big events do you want to run? Boston Marathon is top of my list.
Feedback from the field
Tanya Simpson - I was a parkrun volunteer at the GCAM last week and want to say thank you as I was able to present my husband with his medal when he finished his longest run ever - 10km. It was absolutely fabulous to be there and I would definitely recommend volunteering next year as it settled my nerves and got me pumped for Sunday. Well done on your time in the half marathon! I completed my 4th half marathon on Sunday and was very happy with my time 1:53:32. 7 minutes faster than last year. I definitely feel the parkrun has helped me to be a faster runner.
Jessica Dixon - Everyone that competed at the Gold Coast Airport Marathon is truly inspirational. However the most inspirational person has to be Kirra parkrunner and Twin Towns Runners and Walkers President Tony Kean. Not only did he run 42.2km but he did it at age 75 and in a time of 3:41:01. Legendary!
Terry Baker - I am taking two months off work from Christmas until the end of Feb'14 and am hoping to travel interstate to at least 3 different parkruns. Most likely one on the Gold Coast as my mum and brother live there, possibly one in Canberra and then it's a tossup between Adelaide and Launceston. I have never been to Tassie and it has been over 30 years since I visited Adelaide. As I don't drive I am going to research each venue to find accommodation close to the course and/or good transport links. I have run 3 different courses already so my target is to have done 10 different parkruns by 2015.
Neil Wood - Thanks Karlee and all the other volunteers at Wynnum parkrun. Another great morning, although a bit chilly. Super turnout from Iona as well and some speedy types at the front of the pack. Well done everyone.
Matt Raschke - I've sent this feedback to you guys before, but parkrun gives us an amazing opportunity to rub shoulders and shake hands with some of our heroes. Yesterday at Fingal Bay parkrun, Event Director Jaci Richards introduced me to fellow parkrunner Peter Doohan, who played many times at Wimbledon, including knocking off the number one seed Boris Becker in 1987. I stayed up late to watch that match live and screamed at the TV - after all, Peter is a fellow Novocastrian and a genuinely nice bloke.
Tanya Biltoft – Gatton parkrun is a fab idea! I live an hour the other side of Toowoomba, wish they had one up here. I'm going to try and come down once a fortnight or so once I get my back sorted.
Phoebe Penfold - Just wanted to say how much I'm looking forward to representing parkrun at city2surf in a few weeks thanks to the adidas competition! Thanks so much to all the behind the scenes crew who make parkrun possible.
Drop me an email if you have an interesting parkrun related fact, happening or comment that you would like to share with all parkrunners.
Volunteer Profile
Name: Jessica & Ryu Noai
Club: Twin Towns Runners and Walkers
Age: 30 & 34
Home parkrun: Kirra
Occupation: Rehabilitation Consultant & Accountant
Number of runs: 29 & 16
PB: 23.47 & 21:25
Number of times volunteered: Jess has helped with scanning once but we've taken photos for Kirra parkrun about five times.
Favourite volunteer role: Taking photos and posting them on Facebook to promote this great event and to see all the words of encouragement that come from family and friends.
What do like about volunteering at parkrun: Getting to know all the inspiring and positive people that run, walk, volunteer or cheer.
Most memorable or funniest parkrun moment: Jess explaining what Facebook was to 70 year old Les who wanted to know what she did with all the photos she was taking.
How can we improve parkrun: We are very happy with everything Chris, Mike, Les, Vaughn, Matt and everyone else does.
Reminders
Barcode reminder
Printed barcodes are used at all our events to record your result. Please click here to collect and print your barcode.
No printed barcode, No result.
All questions answered
Do you have a question about parkrun? How do I collect my club T-shirt? How do I get my barcode? All your questions are answered on our brand new support site
Volunteering at parkrun
We ask every parkrunner to volunteer 3 times a year. When volunteering you receive the maximum number of points towards the yearly competition.
Children at parkrun
All children under 11 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Guardians must ensure that children place themselves appropriately so as to prevent a situation where they are being repeatedly overtaken at the start. This is to ensure the safety of your child.
the parkrun show
You can download your copy of the parkrun show here. (iTunes)
The parkrun show is the audible roundup of the "goings on" of everything that caught the teams eye from the weekend in parkrunworld.
Brought to you by Marathon Talk.
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