THROUGHOUT October, the free weekly event Shepparton parkrun is changing its logo to ‘parkwalk’, with bright pink branding to capture the attention — and the imagination — of people who might not think that parkrun is for them.
“parkruns are social events where there are no time limit and people of all ages and abilities take part, including people pushing prams or with their dog on a short handheld lead. It’s all about getting involved in a way that is fun and comfortable for you,” explained Shepparton parkrun volunteer event director, Chelsea Nicholson.
She said walking is one of the best entry points, where participants can soak up the atmosphere, meet new people or walk with their family or friends, and take the first steps to a happier and healthier lifestyle.
“One of the great things about parkrun is that you can never come last. Each week we have people who volunteer as tail walkers, who provide support and encouragement for walkers and are the last people to finish.”
A new ‘parkwalker’ role has been introduced. Wearing a blue vest, volunteers mix with other walkers for a chat over the 5km walk.
parkrun Asia Pacific’s communications and health & wellbeing manager, Glen Turner, said the campaign builds on the fantastic work parkrun does to create a positive experience for walkers.
“Walking can help you manage or prevent health conditions, enhance your mood, boost fitness and bring you into contact with some amazing people and places. By actively encouraging people who don’t currently do parkrun to walk at our events, we can expand the incredible impact that parkrun has on a wider range of people.”
Thousands take more than an hour to complete parkrun. When it started in Australia in 2011, average finish time was 27 minutes, and now it’s 33 minutes, a statistic the organisation is incredibly proud of because it shows that parkrun now appeals to a broader range of people.
Shepparton parkrun takes place at Victoria Park Lake every Saturday at 8am. Registration is free at www.parkrun.com.au/register
