The park run at Vicar Water Country Park has evolved significantly since its inception, with expectations growing around the event’s participation and community involvement. Initially, local runners anticipated a modest turnout, but the event has now become a staple in the running calendar, drawing participants from various backgrounds.
On March 21, 2026, the 60th event showcased a decisive moment in the park run’s history, with 97 finishers taking part. This marked a notable increase in participation, reflecting the growing popularity of the event. The run director, Ryan from Bestwood parkrun, oversaw the proceedings, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
The course featured a significant hill known as The Clippomanjaro Climb, which posed a challenge to many runners. Participants completed two laps on a course that was mostly trail with mixed terrain, highlighting the natural beauty of the area. The event also saw 22 volunteers assisting, a testament to the strong community spirit surrounding the park run.
Among the 97 finishers, 53 were male and 43 were female, with the first finisher completing the run in an impressive time of 20 minutes and 18 seconds. Additionally, 12 personal bests were recorded, indicating that many participants are improving their performance over time. The tail walker finished in 1 hour, 11 minutes, and 14 seconds, ensuring that all participants were supported throughout the event.
Paul Atkinson, a regular participant, commented on the course’s challenges, stating, “I’m sure this hill must get mentioned in every run report – but is so spectacular it deserves another mention!” He also noted the mixed terrain and the overall enjoyment of the event, despite the overcast weather.
The park run has become more than just a running event; it serves as a community gathering point, fostering relationships among participants and volunteers alike. The inclusion of amenities such as a café and toilets, along with cheap parking adjacent to the finish line, has made the event more accessible and enjoyable for all.
As the park run continues to grow, it remains to be seen how future events will adapt to the increasing interest and participation. Details remain unconfirmed regarding potential changes to the course or format, but the enthusiasm from the community suggests that the park run will remain a popular fixture in the area.
