Young athletes are giving the grown-ups a run for their money at a popular weekly event.
Parkrun’s a firm Saturday fixture at Middlesbrough’s Albert Park, and now its Junior counterpart is proving a hit with four- to 14-year-olds on Sunday mornings.
After more than a dozen events, the new Parkrun is firmly established on Middlesbrough’s running calendar.
The 2k Junior Parkrun takes place every Sunday, starting at 9am at the fountain in the centre Albert Park, with turnouts of up to 47 competitors supported by 29 volunteers.
The new event was the brainchild of Breckon Hill Primary school teacher Jonathan Towers and is run in partnership with Middlesbrough Council’s Parks and Public Health teams.
Jonathan, who acts as Race Director, said: “The Junior Parkrun designed to be a family friendly community event that welcomes people of all ages to walk, jog, run, volunteer and have fun.
“It has been amazing to see children and adults from the local and wider community embrace the spirit of Junior Parkrun since our initial event.
“We look forward to welcoming new and returning participants along with their families each week who always bring smiles and laughter.
“A special thank you also goes out to all our volunteers who not only make this event possible but also ensure the event has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.”
The new Junior Parkrun is the latest addition to the range of activities on offer at Albert Park’s which already include roller skating, bowls, croquet, orienteering and fishing, with five new tennis courts and a tennis coaching programme in the pipeline.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “Running’s a fantastic form of exercise no matter what age you are, and Middlesbrough has developed an amazing portfolio of events for young and old alike.
“The Albert Park Parkrun is one of the best attended of its kind in the region, and I’m delighted that we now have an event for younger athletes at such a wonderful and historic venue.
“Congratulations to all those involved in making this event a reality, and I look forward to seeing it go from strength to strength.”
Albert Park’s Junior Parkrun is free to enter, for more details and to register visit the website.