Hello February, hello Saturday and the start of another month of parkrun.
Last year I’d gone on tour to Catford parkrun but this week I decided to stay at Burgess parkrun which proved to be another great decision, taking the opportunity to both run and volunteer.
603 people took to the start line, less than in previous weeks but still an increase on the 587 from event #456 on 04/02/23.
Gone was the arctic chill from previous weeks, we gathered for the Run Director address before heading off.
Already this year I’ve spoken to Chris Vernon who turned 80 and Jenny Hodson of the 500 club. Continuing this theme of inspirational people I was talking to Pip another Burgess attendee who runs and volunteers regularly and learned that she is currently the world record holder for the fastest half-marathon, dressed as a fruit!
I remember seeing Pip at last year’s Halloween/fancy dress Burgess parkrun but I didn’t realise it was also a world record-breaking outfit over longer distances. I’m often referred to as ‘banana man’ due to being one of the people who brings bananas to the event. I’ll be sure to check the Guinness Book of Records to see what the world record is for men completing various distances dressed as fruit, it could be a new goal in the making #lovefruitloverunning
Pip shared that this year she’s hoping to add the marathon world record to her running Hall of Fruit Fame. She’s also looking to break her 5k pb but not dressed a fruit, which is something I’ve agreed to assist with. We’re going to set a date, put together a plan and ensure we have a lot of fun going after it. I’ve paced people to personal bests (pbs) at Burgess parkrun before and it is a very satisfying and enjoyable experience. I’ve also benefited from people pacing me when going after pbs as it can remove the need for me to concentrate on anything other than putting one foot in front of the other.
Last year my birthday fell on the Saturday which resulted in a birthday parkrun in Folkestone, creating an excellent Saturday adventure. This year it will fall on a Sunday meaning there will still be the opportunity for some parkrun London fun.
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