Profile of a Parkrunner: Meet Ann-Maree from Edenderry
Mountlucas Parkrun compiled this profile of one of its participants, Ann-Maree Manley from Edenderry, who has been taking part in the local parkrun for the last year.
When did you first complete a parkrun?
I completed my first parkrun a year ago, on April 6, 2024.
What is your favourite thing about parkrun?
I love the welcoming group run feeling and words of encouragement.
How does it feel to have completed a year of parkruns?
My brother has been parkrunning since 2014, and when he visited home he'd go to Mountlucas for parkrun. I thought he was mad until I eventually went with him one Saturday morning. It's perfect for me; an excuse to get out early and get the run done, and have the chats with like-minded people.
And in Mountlucas, thanks to kind sponsorship from Bord na Móna, there are sometimes treats like a selection box at Christmas or commerative t-shirt.
What is your favourite parkrun memory?
I can't pinpoint one memory. It's such a welcoming atmosphere. I'm trying to improve my time, and the support for fellow parkrunners is my favourite memory I suppose.
What words best describe Mountlucas parkrun?
Pancake flat, lovely one lap loop with parking and toilet facilities; this is an appealing parkrun. Add to that the great team of volunteers and friendly atmosphere every week, you'd be mad not to visit.
Can you tell us about your parkrun tourism?
After starting parkrun a year ago it has given me an extra excuse to travel. I have visited some of the local Midlands events, and some further afield also.
I set myself a challenge/excuse to collect the 5 flags of the UK and Ireland in my first year. That encouraged me to visit Holyrood in Edinburgh, Finsbury Park in London, Severn Bridge in Wales, and Enniskillen in Northern Ireland.
Now, when I plan trips, I always check if I can fit in a parkrun, so I suppose you can say I've become obsessed, but in a healthy way!
Mountlucas parkrun is one of a number of parkruns in the Midlands. To find out more about Mountlucas parkrun see: www.parkrun.ie/mountlucas