In an era thriving on digital interactions, parkrun is setting the stage for a refreshing initiative that encourages individuals across Clare and Ireland to step outside and be part of their communities, while prioritising their wellbeing through the simple acts of volunteering and walking. #VolunteerWalkConnect is a campaign that encourages individuals to explore the realms of volunteering and walking at timed parkrun events for the first time, while simultaneously fostering a deeper connection with nature, their communities and overall wellbeing. Through walks, community engagement, and a strong online presence, the campaign aims to create a positive impact on individuals and society as a whole. “Modern life too often keeps us indoors and disconnected, leading to a lack of engagement with our environment and limited opportunities to connect with others,” said Matt Shields, Country Manager for parkrun Ireland. “#VolunteerWalkConnect is designed to break through these barriers by enticing people to take their first steps into the world of volunteering and walking, …
Read More »GALLERY: Shannon breaks the tape on its first ever Parkrun
SHANNON had its first ever Parkrun last Saturday morning, with scores of people coming out for the occasion. Parkruns are free community-based, volunteer-led events which take place on a Saturday morning at 9:30am in many countries worldwide – Ireland has over 100 events currently. Rob Stephen was instrumental in establishing the Shannon one and speaking about the first local event, he said, “The sun was out, the weather was great. We had around 150 people participating and about 15 people volunteering. It went very well, there was a good crowd volunteering. “One woman flew over from London to do it, she stayed locally in a hotel then, she’s a big enthusiast. There was a big crew from the Parkrun in Tralee, a couple came from Naas. “Obviously there was a good few local people too and people came from the other nearby Parkruns.” He said that the crowd won’t be as big this Saturday, but that it is hoped around …
Read More »Shannon soon to get its own Parkrun
PARKRUN, the free, community-based, volunteer-led event will begin in Shannon on March 26. The event happens on Saturday mornings at 9.30am in many countries around the world, with over 100 in Ireland already. People can register online, print out a barcode and then take part in a 5km event in their local area. When they finish the course, by running or walking, their barcode is scanned and they have a time they can aim to improve upon if they wish. The nearest ones to Shannon until now have been at Lees Road in Ennis, Clarisford Park in Killaloe and UL and Mungret in Limerick. At the start of 2020 there were moves to initiate one in Shannon but Covid intervened and the plans were derailed. However the first Illaunmanagh parkrun will now take place on the morning of Saturday, March 26. The route, which highlights some of the fine amenities available in Shannon, starts on the path near the Illaunmanagh …
Read More »