parkrun comes to Stratford-upon-Avon

parkrun is coming to Stratford-upon-Avon starting on Saturday 20 February at 9am on the Recreation Ground.

parkruns are organised free weekly 5km timed runs – they are open to everyone, free and are safe and easy to take part in.  parkrun is not a race but an opportunity for young and old, of every ability to enjoy a low key social activity where you can enjoy the natural surroundings, whilst benefitting your health and fitness, and gauging your weekly performance online.

The course at the Recreation Ground is three laps, and starts and finishes close to the football pavilion near the car park and the children's play area.  

The course heads in a clockwise direction around the Recreation Ground including a section along the River Avon opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. At the end of the third lap, the finish is on the grass next to the path. The course is mainly on tarmac paths so ordinary road shoes are the best choice; in extreme conditions wearing trail shoes may be useful.

Registration is undertaken once and entry is free, and online via the www.parkrun.org.uk

website up until the night before your first run. Entrants will be allocated a bar code which is your ID; which is printed out and brought to the race and produced at the end on the finish line.

Cllr Mike Brain, Technical Services Portfolio says: “I am delighted that Stratford-upon-Avon is set to host a parkrun, as health and wellbeing is an important issue for all residents of the District. Becoming involved with a local parkrun as a participant or a volunteer is a great way for people to enjoy safe, free and enjoyable exercise in a friendly community-based atmosphere. Running, jogging and walking are some of the simplest contributions to active and healthy life, and I encourage people to make the most of this new weekly opportunity in such a beautiful location."

In addition to participating, the organisers are keen to encourage volunteers and marshals to support the event, where they will receive training and equipment. For more information please contact stratforduponavonhelpers@parkrun.com

For further information about the parkrun event please contact stratforduponavonoffice@parkrun.com

There are currently around 382 parkruns in the UK.