A new running project gets under starters orders in a few weeks' time to help get Islanders fit and active.
Parkrun organise free, weekly, 5km timed runs around the world and it's on track to start here at Les Quennevais Sports Centre at 9am on Saturday 26 September.
It doesn't matter how fit you are - you can run, jog or walk the course and you’ll get an official time so you’ll know your time to beat each week.
Sports Club Officer Nikki Holmes said: “It’s a great way to get fit, get fitter or just get out and enjoy the fresh air. parkruns are fun, friendly and safe and a good way to meet new people too, as participants can enjoy a post-run coffee at Café des Sports at Les Quennevais each week.”
Jersey parkrun Event Director Paul Burrows said: “Thanks to the support from Sport Development, we are delighted to be able to bring parkrun to Jersey. The event is free and open to all, the only thing you need to do is register in advance at www.parkrun.org.uk. Once registered, you can participate in any parkrun events around the world at any time by just turning up on the day. Register once only on the website and don’t forget the golden rule of parkrun – No barcode, no time. Runners need to print out the barcode allocated to them when they register and bring the paper copy each time.”
Assistant Sports Minister Steve Pallett said: “I would encourage anyone considering taking up running or wishing to improve their fitness to give Jersey parkrun a try. It has the potential to be a great community sports event, which has just the right combination of structure and informality to get people out and exercising. It meets our Fit for the Future Sports Strategy ambitions to increase sports tourism and events and help more islanders take up physical activity. The volunteer organisers have incredible enthusiasm and have put in a considerable amount of time and effort to bring parkrun to Jersey.”
It’s a project that could see some new visitors racing over to the Island.
Nikki Holmes said: “I have friends in the UK who are dedicated parkrun enthusiasts and they are really looking forward to coming over to do the Jersey parkrun. I know that there are parkrun tourists who travel all over the world ticking off parkruns so it’ll be great to welcome runners to Jersey who can run the route and take the opportunity to explore the Island further.”
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