THE early rain and mist had cleared for the start of the 272nd Gloucester parkrun last Saturday, although the grey skies and bare trees reminded participants and volunteers that it was still winter.
With five minutes to go, the volunteer team was primed for action but not many parkrunners gathered by the flags.
“I can count them on two hands,” was the comment from one of the volunteers.
But, in true Gloucester parkrun style, many others soon wandered across the fields, including Bill Murray wearing a tutu. Why, you ask? It was the 2-2 day of August, of course.
Bill even brought extra tutus for those who wanted to join in.
By the end, 45 finishers ran, walked and talked their way around the course.
Joining the locals were visitors from Newcastle, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Toowoomba and Canberra.
The first male home was local Eli Soupidis, with another regular Chloe McSwan the first female to finish.
Eli was dressed in his soccer shirt, ready to head off to play in semifinals later that day.
There were three first-timers to Gloucester parkrun – coming for the scenic course along the river.
Two others, Dimity Tighe and Emma Andrews, were doing their first-ever parkrun. Welcome!
At the other end of the parkrun experience was Lyndall Murray from Canberra on his 257th parkrun.
The milder Gloucester conditions must have suited Lyndall as he ran a personal best time.
Also with PBs were Jake Nicholls and Leo McSwan (his time was improved by a sprint to the finish, urged on by his fellow parkrunners).
They were joined with PBs by the Seale family trio of Anna-Rose, Mel and John, all doing the course at their own separate pace.
The crew donning the volunteer vests (and liking them so much, one volunteer had to be reminded to take it off before she headed home) were Mel Wade, Rod Eckels, Howard Cameron and Jenny Lindsay.
Mel was doing another stint as timekeeper, teaming up with Howard who was handing out finish tokens.
Rod was wearing a few hats – helping to set up the course, taking photos and also scanning.
Jenny was doing her regular job of tailwalking, guiding the pack from behind.
Gloucester parkrun is at 8am every Saturday – so come along and join in the fun of a 5 kilometre walk or run around Gloucester District Park.
By Carolyn DAVIES
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