IN TYPICAL winter style, Saturday saw a cold damp start, however, this did not stop 170 runners take to Barry Island for the 95th Barry Island parkrun.

This was Barry Island’s fourth highest number of runners since the event started in May 2015.

First past the post this week was Gareth Michael Green of San Domenico RC in a time of 17:52, an unknown runner was second while third for the men was John Morris of Taff Running and Orienteering.

For the ladies this week, it was a close finish with junior runner Bethan Hardmad of Bridgend AC crossing the line in 23:29 just in front of Gina Hardman also of Bridgend AC who was only a second behind in 23:30. Caitlin Williams of Seriously Mad Runners took the third place spot, in a time of 24:00.

This weekend saw the return of the Pacer event, with members from Penarth and Dinas pacing runners at even numbers from 22 minutes up and including 40 minutes, Sophie Gott who was pacing for 28 minutes also celebrated her 50th parkrun.

Pacing weekends are always a big hit with our runners as it gives them the opportunity to chase that PB (personal best) which always seems so out of reach. Saturday’s event saw 57 runners managing to push that little bit further and cross the finish line with a new PB.

Penarth and Dinas runners were also on hand to answer any questions about their upcoming event, The Porthkerry 5 Multi Terrain race which has proved a very popular run with parkrunners.

The parkrun events are for all abilities whether you are a walker, newcomer to running or a seasoned runner with Olympic quality. One parkrunner, Helen McCarthy, sent a message to say thank you to Barry Island parkrun and also to local running group Seriously Mad Runners for all the support and encouragement that she has received since joining them.

“I started running last June to get ready for my first 5k run for Cancer Research UK.

"On June 18, I came alone a bit unsure but completed my first run with a time of 37.48

"Saturday I came for my 33rd parkrun and came away with a new PB time of 27.42.

“Massive thank you to the pacer at 28 minutes”

Since June 18, Helen has participated in 33 parkruns at Barry Island and managed to record an amazing 14 personal best times.

Every parkrun event is required to undertake a risk assessment which will determine the minimum number of volunteers that are needed in order for the event to take place.

The last few events at Barry Island have seen a decline in volunteers and the risk of having to cancel the event at the last minute.

If you can volunteer on a Saturday morning they only require a maximum of two hours of your time and there are various roles that need to be filled. The core group and regular volunteers are a great friendly bunch and all training for new roles is given on the day.

You don’t have to be a runner to volunteer so why not give it a go. You can contact them at barryislandhelpers@parkrun.com