What a glorious day for a junior parkrun. We were blessed not only with amazing weather but also some great Good Gym volunteers, big shout out to Maria and Moses especially for their first visits to LF junior parkrun, and Nicholas a superb tail walker . Of course, the whole thing can only happen through the efforts of volunteers and DoE participants Daisy, Joel, and Zach are now old hands – whilst super parents Johnny, Melanie, Neil, and Ben made sure we could get underway.
With the 32 runners assembled we welcomed Angiolina, Ines, and Max to their first parkruns, and Sydney’s first at London Fields. We also congratulated Khian on completing his Marathon! it was wonderful to see Paula, who was instrumental in founding the local parkrun and served as RD for many years, returned to provide support. Maya assisted with the warmup before the run began. Herbie achieved a personal best time, leading the group. There were five personal bests in total that morning. As the main group finished, they were met with applause from parents and early finishers. The volunteer crew made quick work of the pack up and it was all over for another week.

The sun came out just for us on this early morning mission. In my marshall spot, I even had a dog companion for a bit of the run - cheering the energetic children to the finish line!

The sun was definitely out for event #322 at the Fields this morning, and it drew a large crowd of 38 runners (and encouragers), which gave run director Rue a chance to use his persuasion skills to rope in a few of the parents as extra hi viz volunteers. With the course set up, and tasks allocated, it was on to the customary announcements, and then Rue leading his Hackney Haka warm up.

And then they were off, and it wasn't too long before the front runners were heading down the finishing straight, where we saw a close finish as the first four were within 6 seconds of each other. Nick on finish tokens needed to be quick with the handing out...

Our last runner came across the line with a broad smile on her face, and after everyone had caught their breath, it was a quick pack up and we were done for another week - 5 first timers, of which for 3 this was their first ever parkrun, and 9 PBs, so another successful Sunday morning at the Fields!

Conditions in the skies were distinctly uncertain at the Fields this morning as the team celebrated event #321, but the clouds didn't put off the 18 enthusiastic junior parkrunners or the 10 willing high vizzed volunteers.

Sooz successfully requisitioned a few additional volunteers to be Marshalls around the course, and then led the warm up under the big tree, and at just after 9 it really was "3,2,1" and the familiar rush to the first turning point.

Fortunately it was dry underfoot, so no slips or slides along the way, and just over 9 minutes later we had our first finisher, followed by the 17 other runners and walkers, all cheered enthusiastically down the finishing straight. With 2 first timers and 5 personal bests it was clearly another successful morning on the course.

Same time next week under the big tree for more fun at the Fields.

Sunday Morning Junior parkrun – A Flying Start! This Sunday morning, junior parkrun kicked off bright and early with energy and enthusiasm as the GoodGymers rallied together to support Jonny in his debut as Race Director.

With volunteer roles swiftly allocated, the stage was set for Jonny to take charge of the all-important warm-up and race briefing—both delivered with confidence and a dash of Wicked dancing.

Zachary kept the time perfectly, while Daisy expertly handed out finish tokens, ensuring every runner crossed the line smoothly. The morning saw a flurry of personal bests and some edge-of-your-seat sprint finishes that left spectators cheering.

Louise was our star tail walker, offering gentle encouragement and support to the youngest participants, helping make sure everyone got around the course safely and with a smile.

With everything packed away quickly and efficiently, the team parted ways feeling proud of a job well done and another successful junior parkrun in the books.

What a beautiful sunny day for a spot of jogging at London Fields!

Nearly 40 youngsters turned out for this week’s run supported by 3 GoodGymmers amongst the regular parkrun volunteers.

After a speedy setup, Rue expertly took on the role of Run Director, leading all the young runners through the warm up - with a little help from our junior volunteers doing their Duke of Edinburgh award. There were also 2 half marathon milestones to celebrate!

Sarah set up camp under her usual tree, bringing all the necessary support and high-fives to get our regular and new runners around the course. Sooz steered the children safely round as this week’s tailwalker.

Another fine week complete - thanks to all our volunteers. See you next week: https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions/london-fields-junior-parkrun-volunteering-before-hackney-half