THE 400TH running of the Harlow parkrun took place on Saturday morning.

The first run took place on November 8th, 2014, when 154 runners took part.

Since then thousands have run, walked, perambulated the 5k (3.1 mile) journey around the town park.

It is a lovely course that takes you out on the cycle track to near Glebelands before heading back at the top of the old pitch and putt course.

The smallest number of participants was 55 in Feb 2015. The record number was 416 in Feb 2020. Now it sits around a comfortable 250.

We think the very modest Kris Foster has run the most Harlow parkruns with 299.

There are some runners who live around the corner and then most weeks, there are tourists. This week it was South Africa and Warrington.

The parkrun depends on its volunteers, marshals and course directors in order for the event to go ahead.

From first light they are out marking the course, putting out the markers, the V-turn sign, Brooks Bridge, to name just a few.

The marshals are a force of nature. Come rain or shine, they are there encouraging all the runners.

We would also like to take a moment to remember the who have passed but we will alway remember them.

Harlow Council’s Darren Fazackerley, who was fundamental in getting the event off the ground. Spencer Brooks, who fought his illness with such bravery.

Robin and Ruby Campbell, Derek Jenner to name just a few.

This week’s winners were Martin Westley with a time of 19.45 and Donna Milton, who came home in 15th place with a time of 22.45.

There are some people who are out running but take time between breaths to encourage other runners.

There are also the loyal trail runners, who make sure everyone gets home safely. A special mention to Carol Lynch and Helen Darvill.

Parkrun and especially Harlow parkrun is like a universal family, a global village, where people from all walks of life get together to share an enthusiasm for staying healthy.

Speaking of families, the Webber family (Lee, Sandra, Emily and Tegan have run a combined 543 parkruns!).

For more information, click below.

https://www.parkrun.org.uk/harlow/