24/05/2026
Thank you to Selina Dent from Didcot parkrun who has written this weeks news report.
This week, an impressive 1,122 parkrunners and 55 volunteers gathered for event number 704.
A short walk from the leisure centre car park, I joined fellow tourists at the first-timers briefing, with visitors from places including Brighton, South London, Belfast and Chipping Sodbury.
Congratulations to those taking part in their very first parkrun, as well as those celebrating milestones — especially Jenny on her 100th, John on his 50th, and Jen, complete with fabulous balloons, marking her 25th.
After a walk through of the route we headed over to the start in front of the fountain, lining up in accordance with our estimated finish times.
A quick check for any geese crossing and a countdown from 3-2-1, we were off on the first lap around the cricket pitch.
Despite the large attendance, it was one of the smoothest starts I’ve experienced at a busy parkrun, with runners flowing steadily onto the course.
A beautifully sunny day and with solid paths throughout we continued on for lap of the glistening lake.
Keeping an eye out for swans and geese with their young, and encouraged by friendly marshals along the way, we soon headed back into the park for one final lap of the cricket pitch before the straight run to the finish.
Here a multi funnel is in operation, efficiently managing the high attendance and ensuring everyone receives their correct time.
If you are looking for a scenic fast and flat, this course is for you.
Thank you to all the volunteers for making today’s event possible.
Selina
