Milestone for Helix junior parkrun as it prepares to host 500th event
A free weekly event which promotes exercise among the younger members of the community is set to mark a milestone this weekend.
The Helix Junior parkrun will host its 500th event on Sunday morning.
The local event, which takes place in Helix Park, is part of the nationwide parkrun initiative which sees those between the ages of four and 14 complete a 2k route in parks across the UK every Sunday at 9.30am.
Participants can walk, jog or run the 2k route, which in the Helix takes in the park’s Great Lawn and Lagoon.
The events are free, inclusive and open to all abilities.
While the adults head to green spaces – locally it’s Callendar Park – for their parkrun on a Saturday morning, it’s a Sunday morning event for the younger generation.
The first junior parkrun took place at the Helix in April 2014 when 87 youngsters turned up to take part.
Now, after almost 12 years – including an 18 month pause – organisers are looking forward to celebrating the 500th event this weekend.
They are hoping the area's young people will come along and get involved to help them mark the occasion, whether they are regular attenders or are new to junior parkrun.
Sunday’s event will have a superhero theme with participants encouraged to come dressed as a superhero or to bring their own superhero with them. Remember, not all superheroes wear capes.
A spokesperson for Helix junior parkrun said: “Our ethos has always been one of community. You can do parkrun in whatever way you see fit. Some look for PBs, high finishing places or improving age grades.
"Some go for milestone bands. For many it’s a leap into the unknown, running or walking 2k and simply getting it done.
“Helix juniors will always be a welcoming space. It’s a credit to the children, adults and volunteers that we continue to see new participants every week and they choose to return.”
For more information visit parkrun.org.uk