Free community run celebrates first birthday! 

THERE was plenty of colour, laughter and a few rather interesting costumes at Coolum Eco parkrun on Saturday, September 12, with the group celebrating its first anniversary.

Event #53 saw 76 people run, jog and walk the course, including 23 first-timers, with participants turning up dressed as everything from Elvis, dinosaurs,  flamingos, a nun, a duck and even an inflatable Grim Reaper!

Participants were encouraged to dress up for the morning and, despite the rainy conditions, a great morning of fun and community was had by all at the parkrun site out in the Quanda Industrial Estate in Coolum Beach.

The anniversary celebrations continued after the run with plenty of homemade treats shared among participants.

Since Coolum Eco parkrun began in September last year, some 2,823 people have taken part, completing 5,445 parkruns and covering more than 27,000km.

But the weekly event is about much more than the numbers or personal bests, and whether you run, jog, walk or simply want to enjoy a chat and meet some new friends, everyone is encouraged to come along.

Coolum Eco parkrun is held every Saturday at 7 am, and it’s free to take part. First-timers simply need to register with parkrun before their first event and bring their personal barcode along.

There’s no pressure to race or finish in a particular time — participants can run, jog or walk the course at their own pace, or volunteer and be part of the fun.

It’s a great way to get moving, meet people and start the weekend outdoors and by doing something that is good for you!

COOLUM ECO PARKRUN 
Every Saturday, 7 am
Free event – all ages and abilities welcome
Register at www.parkrun.com.au