After last week’s epic party, we moved to Peckham Rye, the parkrun tucked away in Peckham Common.
This was my 16th trip to Peckham, a home away from home and always a friendly atmosphere.
As we gathered under a brilliant sun (27 degrees and rising) I was reminded of the solemnity of last year's event when the run director asked for a minute's silence to mark the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Learning of my own father’s death on Friday, this was the perfect opportunity for my own 1 minute silence, outside amongst friends to reflect on his life.
Bill Morris, the great trade unionist wrote the following in my father’s first book;
‘If every journey of a thousand miles starts with one small step, then the achievements chronicled by Tony Wade in this book are as relevant in distance travelled and obstacles conquered as Neil Armstrong’s journey to the moon’.
My father loved life and lived it voraciously (especially his food) whilst always making time and kindness for others. He leaves an indelible mark on history. As I set out on my run I had a great sense of gratitude for having him in my life and thankfulness that he is now at peace, having wrestled with severe dementia and an inability to speak for the last 12mths. He is no longer in pain, or suffering; he has transitioned to being an ancestor and I believe he gave my daughter a hug and a tickle on his departure.
Peckham parkrun is a three-lap adventure through glorious trees, little bridges and sightings of the old river Peck, which once flowed more freely across the Rye.
After all slammers were accounted for and photo duties done we headed to the cafe for brunch for those liminal moments parkruns provides.
Next week I’ll be taking a break from the Southwark Slam, to participate in the Gay Pride 20th anniversary 10k at Victoria Park and then returning to Burgess parkrun on 23/09/23 for their birthday bonanza.
For now, rest in peace Dad.
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