A GROUP of Cockermouth residents are calling for the public to help support a new parkrun event in the town.
Community support is needed to test a parkrun route in Cockermouth at 9am on Sunday, February 4, as a group of residents hope to be able to bring an event to the town in the near future.
The parkrun is a free community event over 5k, where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. It is a global initiative which welcomes everyone to come along.
There are 1,243 events nationally, with events already happening in Carlisle, Penrith, Whinlatter, Keswick, Workington, Whitehaven, Millom, Maryport, Silloth, Aspatria, Ulverston and several others across the county.
The Saturday morning run is for everyone from spectators and volunteers who cheer on and support those who are taking part, to those who are starting out on their activity journey and walk part of the course, to occasional and regular runners and running club members.
Sam Ayers, local fitness instructor said: “We are currently testing the greenway in Cockermouth to see if it will work for a parkrun which would be fantastic for the town. We have set up two events, the second of which is coming up next week.
"The first event in January was well attended with 93 participant. This one is also proving popular but we need another 50 walkers, joggers or runners to take part.”
As these events are not yet part of parkrun they are being delivered by BodyFit Cumbria Running Club who provide registration and insurance and ensure events meet UK athletics standards, so similar to parkrun, participants can get a personal time for completing the event.
Mark Holmes, race director and club chair said: “We are pleased to say 30 junior places have been sponsored by BodyFit Cumbria, Lake District Barbell and Chance Camp, so junior entry is only £1.58.
"In these events prizes are awarded for top three male and female participants, and then for every 12th place up to 156th. Funds raised will be shared between the running club and for the set-up costs for a parkrun in the town.
"We need 150 participants to test this route so we encourage everyone to register and take part, so far we’ve 103 entries… so please do join the fun!”
Register at: https://entry.eventsupnorth.co.uk/races/e96u3
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