How to get involved in Mountlucas Parkrun

The popular Mount Lucas parkrun in Offaly issued this Q&A guide for those interested in learning more about how to get involved....

What is parkrun all about?

Parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate.

Parkrun takes place globally every Saturday morning. It started in the UK several years ago. Since then, parkrun has been established in more than 20 countries worldwide.

Parkrun began in the Republic of Ireland on 10 November 2012 with the first running of Malahide parkrun. There are currently 152 parkrun events around the country taking place every weekend.

Parkrun is a 5km route and everyone who takes part is given a finish time which is recorded online and emailed to each person after the event.

Each parkrun is organised and held with the support of a team of volunteers, usually people who regularly complete parkrun themselves.

How do I sign up to do a parkrun?

Before attending parkrun, it is important to register online for the event. You can do this on parkrun.ie. When you register you will get a parkrun barcode. You then bring this with you to every parkrun event you attend, either printed or on your phone or smartwatch.

You only need to register once and it takes just a few minutes. You can use this parkrun barcode at any parkrun throughout Ireland or across the globe.

Do I have to be able to run 5km to complete a parkrun?

Parkrun is aimed at both walkers and runners, of all fitness levels. It is most definitely not a requirement that you need to be able to run 5km.

Participants find the community atmosphere very supportive, and parkrun can be a key part of a healthy lifestyle or your fitness journey. It is also a great social outlet to meet new people.

Children are welcome to take part. Children under 11 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a short non-extendable lead throughout.

Where can I take part?

Mountlucas parkrun takes place every Saturday morning at 9.30am sharp at Mountlucas Wind farm in Offaly. Come along a few minutes beforehand to receive a warm welcome from the Run Director and team of volunteers. There are other parkrun events across the Midlands.

For more information see parkrun.ie