A FITNESS fanatic is celebrating completing his 500th parkrun.

When 59-year-old Jeff Cox, who lives in Barry, took part in his first parkrun back in 2007 he was instantly hooked.

He's taken part in them as much as possible - hindered only by injuries and Covid restrictions - and, on Saturday January 29, completed his 500th parkrun at Barry Island.

"It's taken me longer than expected due to various injuries," said Mr Cox, who volunteers when he is not taking part.

"But I am obsessed with running and racing - I like to compete with myself and see how far I can push myself.

"I've always been into sport; in school I played rugby and did athletics, but when I left school and started working it got pushed to the side."

Mr Cox took part in his first parkrun at Bushy Park in London - where he lived and worked at the time - on July 14, 2007.

His friends suggested it and he was "hooked straight away".

At this time the wildly popular scheme hadn't been introduced to Wales - the first Welsh parkrun was held in Cardiff on February 16, 2008 - with Mr Cox among its participants.

Fourteen years on and he's completed 500 in total - including more than 300 in Cardiff and many in Barry, as it's "more local" to him.

His partner, Tracy Cox, said: "Running is his passion and I'm really proud of him."

During lockdowns Mr Cox took part in virtual challenges including:

  • Route 66 (2,280 miles);
  • Wales Coastal Path (870 miles);
  • Mount Everest (40 miles).

He’s overcome various obstacles to get here – including having his Achilles reconstructed and parkruns coming to a halt in lockdown.

“I’m glad to be running again,” said Mr Cox.

“Parkrun is really nice; you meet with friends and it’s great for mental health.

"When Covid took it away it affected lots of people.”

Mr Cox shows no signs of slowing down - he plans to continue taking part in parkruns and to volunteer when possible as it is "important to give back".