At the Old Trail car park beside Newbrook Bridge, near where the Mullingar Parkrun starts and finishes, were members of the volunteer organising team, (from left) Caroline Boyle, Blanaid Adamson, Matthew Glennon, Anne Fagan, Joe Carroll, Yvonne Kane, John O'Reilly and Julie Stakem.

Parkrun comes to Mullingar

Good news for runners and those who like to be active – the first Mullingar Parkrun takes place this coming Saturday morning.

Parkruns are free weekly 5km events for runners of all standards which takes place every Saturday at 9.30am. The Mullingar one starts and finishes near the Old Trail car park beside Newbrook Bridge.

One of the principles of parkruns are that they are not races against other runners: they are 5k timed runs, whether for fun or as part of a training plan.

Parkruns offer the opportunity for people to come together on a regular basis to enjoy a beautiful outdoor space, and get active.

The volunteer organisers want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is open to all and best of all, it really is free.

Taking part is easy – just register online before your first parkrun. You will get a unique barcode, which you’ll need to print out and take with you on Saturday morning.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get started on your own running journey or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to go along and join in.

Participants usually meet at a cafe after the run to enjoy the social side of things.

More details at parkrun.ie/mullingar and on Facebook (search ‘Mullingar parkrun’).