Runners unite in good spirit
Pounding the pavement is often considered a boring way to exercise but running in a supportive pack at Rockingham Foreshore is far from dull.
Every Saturday morning, rain, wind or sunshine, the Rockingham parkrun members turn out in droves to dash along the 5km trail in an attempt to beat their personal best time.
On average, 147 runners culminate to stretch, adjust laces and plug in earphones ahead of the 8am start for the miniature marathon between Railway Terrace at Naval Memorial Park.
Rockingham resident and event director Claudia Wells said she was exposed to the volunteer-run concept on the east coast and was amazed at how well it united the community “in a healthy atmosphere”.
She said the labour of love was enjoyed by all volunteers who helped to time runners, guide them around the foreshore and offer support.
“(The run) is a good laugh — it’s a running joke that while some are smiling, others are struggling in photos at the end,” she said.
“One of the things that makes parkrun fun is doing the best you can do — do what you feel comfortable doing because speed doesn’t matter.”
Mrs Wells said the free event was a great way for beginners to increase fitness ability, while others used it as a training platform to prepare them for the half and full marathons.
Rockingham parkrun has 1626 registered runners and its records are 19 minutes for women and 15.48 minutes for men. For more information or to register, visit www.parkrun.com.au/rockingham.
