WITH another weekend packed full of events across Barry, runners once again took to the three lap alternative course at the Barry Island parkrun last Saturday.

Amongst the 148 runners that took part this week were 33 first timers, including visitors from Telford, Reading and as far away as Australia.

Parkrun takes place every Saturday morning, not just in the UK but also in 15 countries across the globe so there’s plenty of opportunity for some tourism – just remember to pack your barcode when you travel.

First across the line at Barry Island this week was Christopher Jeynes of Brackla Harriers in a time of 19:29. Jeff Cox of Les Croupiers RC was second, making his way around the course in 20:07 and in third place in a time of 20:15 was Thomas Lowrie.

For the ladies it was Rachel Eales of Penarth & Dinas Runners that was first to finish in a time of 21:59, Amy Gomer of Les Croupiers RC was second in 22:53 and in third place for Pegasus RC was Caroline Bassett in a time of 23:55.

Barry Island parkrun likes to recognise those runners and volunteers that reach certain milestones along their parkrun journey and this week was no exception. Nigel Bleach was the man of the moment this week as he was not only celebrating his 100th parkrun but also his 50th at Barry Island.

As is the tradition with these milestones, there was cake for all to share. Those parkrunners that reach milestones are rewarded with a commemorative running shirt for 50 runs, 100 runs, 250 & 500 runs, and there is also a junior milestone for those completing 10 runs. For the volunteers the milestone is 25 volunteer occasions and there is also a t-shirt for this.

This week’s event was made possible with the help of 18 volunteers, who gave up their time on Saturday morning to ensure Barry Island parkrun could go ahead safely. This week's volunteers were: Yvonne Williams, Lyn Evans, Nicola John, Ian Thorne, Rhian Lees, Dave Shields, Claire Thorne, Kirstine Hughes, Hilary Thurlow, Sarah Gronow, Nigel James, Sarah brooks, Chloe Brooks, Jason Elworthy, Richard Jackson, Alun Chapple, Samantha Blake & Christopher Barnsley.

Since Barry Island parkrun started in May 2015 there have been 2794 different runners making it around the 5km route, covering a total distance of 63,640 km.

Barry Island parkrun is a totally free, timed 5km run and is organised and run entirely by volunteers. If you would like to get involved or volunteer then you can get in touch via email at: barryislandhelpers@parkrun.com.