ON SATURDAY, Harlow parkrun celebrates its tenth birthday.

We are running a couple of stories on this important anniversary.

We asked some of the members of popular running and triathlon club, Innovation Multisport, what parkrun means to them.

Cat McCabe
Parkrun has changed my Saturdays! It has given me a new family – my running family. I have made amazing friendships, been to other fabulous parkruns around the UK and, for me, it has been the stepping stone for me to go on to complete other events with different distances but Harlow parkrun will always be my favourite! The core team are welcoming and supportive. I love volunteering and being a part of the community as much as completing parkrun, no matter my speed!

Tracie Cook
Joining parkrun was one of the best decisions I ever made! It’s brought me so much joy, not only through the amazing friends and community I’ve found, but also in seeing my dad become a regular marshal. It’s given him a great escape from his retirement routine and a real sense of purpose — plus, he loves it! It’s truly special to be part of a place where, even if you’re injured or can’t participate in the event, you’re still welcomed and encouraged to volunteer and give back. There’s just something wonderful about being able to support others and make a difference in such a positive, inclusive community.

Leslie Perry

My running journey started towards the end of the COVID-19 pandemic when I challenged myself to complete the C25K app, followed by a celebratory Harlow parkrun. I’m still running spurred on and motivated by all those doing their thing every Saturday morning.

Susan Mould

I came to parkrun quite late, starting in January 2020. 3 months later everything got locked down. I returned again in the summer of 2021 and happened upon pacer week. The pacer I followed introduced me to my running club and opened the door to a whole new friendship group. I’m now also a Run Director and find this incredibly rewarding and love engaging with the parkrun community on Saturday mornings.

Pat O’Flaherty

Exercising as an older person has really changed my life . I feel fit and healthy at 64 years of age . Harlow parkrun has played a big part in that .

Alan Powers

I thought my Running days were over, Then Harlow parkrun started and my Running Days took off again I have made a lot of friends at parkrun for which I will always be Grateful.

Becca Elsmore

I have never experienced a bad time at Harlow park run, the community is absolutely amazing. I would have never started running if it wasn’t for the parkrun community at Harlow.

Kelly Burgess

Parkrun has taken me to places I wouldn’t have gone to otherwise! Thankyou Harlow parkrun for starting my running journey. 🏃‍♀️❤️