Run-Volunteering at Holbrooks Parkrun (Event #2)

On Saturday morning, one GoodGymer turned up bright and early to run and help support Holbrooks Parkrun.

Holbrooks Parkrun emerged as Coventry's best kept secret after last week's inaugural event. Now the word was out, the crowds had increased dramatically from 30 runners for the inaugural event to 99 for this week's event.

My first impression, when I arrived at Holbrooks Park, was that it is a lovely green space but alas some users do not cherish this hidden gem as much as they should. A warm Friday evening had brought out the crowds, some of whom were seemingly incapable of using the bins provided. Becky from the Holbrooks core team did an amazing job at clearing the litter, ready for the start. However, she was really keen to make an arrangement for regular litter picks by Coventry GoodGym. These will be listed as future sessions, so watch this space!

Tim, the Run Director, commenced the run brief just before 9am, after which we all headed to the start. I was joined by fellow GoodGymers, Victoria Hill and Lilian Daniels, but, as I had barcode scanning to do, I had to put the hammer down and get across the line in time to be useful! Still panting, I donned hi-viz and tokens bucket and helped scan in the rest of the runners. Once the work was complete, it was off to 'Food@Whitehalls' for a cuppa and breakfast.

The Holbrooks core team have set up a very well organised event here. Despite the surge in attendees, everything was slick and well managed. The course was mostly flat, albeit with a few interesting undulations and a mix of tarmac paths and grass. It could be a little more challenging in wet weather, so if you are considering running it in future you might want to consider shoe choice around the weather conditions. One thing is certain, there is no shortage of volunteer roles available, so please consider signing up for future events (https://www.parkrun.org.uk/holbrooks/futureroster/) and watch this space for upcoming regular sessions.