Fitness first at Roodepoort parkrun

The Roodepoort parkrun has become a staple on the local running calendar, consistently attracting 400-plus runners every Saturday morning.

Saturday, June 1 was no exception, with 385 runners gathering at the starting line for this popular fitness event.

No fewer than 28 volunteers were present on the day to ensure that the run happened in an orderly and safe fashion.

Runners from all backgrounds, ages, and fitness levels, many accompanied by their four-legged family members, took to the course at Len Rutter Park with gusto on a cool and slightly windy Saturday morning for the refreshing two-lap, 5km run.

This week, the top five even included a first-timer to the Roodepoort parkrun, in the form of Ryan Folster, who finished in fifth place with a time of 22:21.

Dzunani Baloyi, with 46 parkruns under his belt, finished in first place in 20:29, followed by Munyaradzi Hluyo, who managed an impressive 21:03.

Jason Westman took third place in a time of 21:14, followed by Peter Wilfred Loudon Brown, who did his 242nd parkrun as part of the Florida Lake Canoe Club.

Milestones at this week’s parkrun included Luis de Vasconcelos, who, in addition to completing his 450th run, also managed a personal best time.

Yvonne Donachie completed her 400th parkrun and Charlotte Megannon from the Florida Running Club did her 350th.

Stephan de Wet and Christopher John Brand each completed their 50th event.

The parkrun also attracted numerous first-timers.