Bundaberg parkrun celebrated the end of 2022 with a milestone run to commemorate its 250th event.
Established in 2017 Bundaberg parkrun has had more than 20,500 finishes thanks to the dedication of 371 volunteers who helped an average of 82 participants cross the line each week.
Director Matt Gees said although Bundaberg parkrun was a small event compared to others, the comradery was what made it so successful.
“It's exciting for not only the key events team, but all of our volunteers and regulars who have loved being involved in parkrun since Bundaberg started in February 2017,” Matt said.
“We've had some ups and downs since we commenced including dealing with natural disasters, COVID shutdown and the extended use of the park as entry to the local testing clinic.
“But 2022 has been a great year and we are excited about continuing to be one of three local parkrun events.”
Matt said the friendly atmosphere during the 250th event was the perfect way to finish the year.
“Bundaberg parkrun is a smaller event, but by no means the smallest, and that means that many of our parkrunners are regulars and enjoy hanging around after they've completed their run or walk each week,” he said.
“This thing we call parkrun is more than just another exercise or fitness event.
“It's also very much a social gathering. We get to know each other and enjoy catching up with people we see every week.
“This creates a friendly atmosphere where even visitors feel like they are welcome there.
“Our 250th event was no different. We welcomed some visitors from out of town and we were excited to have some of our former event team including Melody Scott – the first event director for Bundaberg parkrun.”
Matt said the Bundaberg parkrun was made up of incredible volunteers who helped ensure parkrun went smoothly each week.
“Like all parkruns across the world, our event is run completely by volunteers who give up their time to assist our run directors in making the event a success,” Matt said.
“We also enjoy great support from Bundaberg Regional Council who not only allow us free and exclusive use of Queens Park each Saturday morning, but also through the Parks and Gardens department who are always willing to assist us with any issues that arise.
“Outside of this, our success can be contributed to a number of factors including our course which combines some small hills, river views and three laps of a scenic park.”
To find out more or become involved in parkrun click here.
Bundaberg parkrun by the numbers, in total
Events: 250
Finishers: 3,231
Finishes: 20,508
Average finishers per week: 82
Volunteers: 371
Personal Best: 3693
Average finish time: 00:38:48
Average finishes per participant: 6.3
Groups: 180
Female record: Kate Watson – 18:57 – Event 32 (30 Sep 2017)
Male record: Aidan Hobbs – 15:46 – Event 46 (27 Jan 2018)
Age graded record: David McEwan – 83.78% 19:19 – Event 25 (12 Aug 2017)
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