Weymouth parkrun makes long-awaited return
The free 5k run is back today
Fans of parkrun will finally be able to get their fix as the weekly running event returns to Lodmoor Country Park on Saturday mornings.
All UK parkrun events were cancelled in March 2020 due to the pandemic but the majority will restart this weekend.
Prior to the pandemic the town's event was attracting hundred of participants, either running or walking.
Event Director Jef Hutchby admits it'll be an emotional moment;
"I think for a lot of volunteers and certainly for a lot of people returning it's a whole mixture of emotions. Obviously it's great to be back but we do realise that a lot of participants have suffered with Covid one way or another, either mentally, physically, people they know, work or loss of, there are so many circumstances."
SAFETY MEASURES
There are safety measures in place which includes having more volunteers to scan barcodes to avoid congestion in the finish area.
THE COURSE
The course is at Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth, DT4 7SX.
It begins with a 200 metre run on to one and a half laps anti clock-wise around the miniature train track and 9-hole golf course.
Then runners head north along the walk/cycle tarmac track around the rugby ground and training pitch towards Weymouth Park and Ride area.
Loop around the Round Table 'pineapple' monument and back along the same route to the Lodmoor Park. Turning left to do a clock-wise circuit around the golf and train areas then onto the 200m finish straight.
It is run on a mixture of tar paths and gravel paths. Some sections of the course may accumulate mud, leaves and puddles after rain.
If you're new to parkrun and would like to take part or volunteer then you'll need to register.
It's quick and easy and you can find out more here: https://www.parkrun.org.uk/weymouth/course/
JUNIOR PARKRUN
Junior parkrun resumed in April but older children weren't able to take part.
The return of 5k events means that 11-14 year olds are now able to join in again.
The town's event takes place at 9am on Sundays also in Lodmoor Country Park.
You can find out more on their Facebook page.