FEBRUARY’S first parkrun took place just ahead of storm Imogen but the runners and volunteers still had to contend with wet and breezy conditions.

Heavy overnight rain meant the course now featured a tricky new water jump and a small stream. Undaunted, however, 59 runners, 15 of them first time visitors, turned up and made the most of the cover provided by the Eastern shelter before heading out on the course.

Despite the weather, there were some excellent performances. Runners from San Domenico RC led the field home with Gareth Green and Richard Wilder in first and second places and fellow club member Sally Wilder first lady finisher.

Five people clocked up new personal best times, amongst them 11 year-old Taylor Hughes, who set his third PB (27:39) in three weeks.

In true parkrun spirit, Taylor was supported all the way round by regulars Michael Elliston and Martyn Parsons and came home to cheers and applause from fellow runners and volunteers.

So did tail runner Don Clarey and first timer Jason Elworthy. Don helped Jason, normally an accomplished field athlete, complete his first ever 5k run in just over an hour.

Over the course of the six parkruns so far this year, 615 runners have clocked up 3,075 km (roughly the distance from Barry Island to Moscow). Of these, 170 were first time Barry Island parkrunners, with 98 personal best times being set (ranging from 17 to 38 minutes).

After 40 events, Sally Wilder heads the ladies’ annual points competition table on 2,793 points with the Williams family trio of Lisa, Caitlin and Bethan not far behind. Mike James is top of the men’s table on 3,085 points, closely followed by Richard Wilder and Michael Elliston. Points are awarded for running, based on finish position, and for volunteering each week.

Barry Island parkrun is a free, timed weekly 5km run and is open to anyone of any ability - runners, joggers or walkers alike. There’s no time limit to complete the course. All you need is a personal barcode.

It starts at 9am every Saturday morning under the Eastern shelter of Barry Island promenade, near the beach huts. Find out more on the website parkrun.org.uk/barryisland.