Parkrun marked its millionth event, celebrating two decades of fostering community cohesion and public health benefits. The free weekly 5km run, originating in London, now spans 2,800 global locations, engaging millions in physical activity and social connection, with GPs prescribing it for mental and physical well-being.
The one millionth parkrun has been celebrated at Bushy Park in London, the event's birthplace. Founder Paul Sinton-Hewitt highlighted the free, social, and physical benefits of the weekly 5km runs and junior 2km runs, which have expanded to over 2,800 locations in 23 countries.
Nearly 500 runners gathered at Greenway Parkrun in Sydney's Haberfield to honour the legacy of Professor Richard Scolyer, who died aged 59 after a battle with brain cancer. Scolyer, a renowned pathologist and melanoma researcher, was a pioneer in brain cancer research and a co-recipient of the Australian of the Year award.
Darren Wood, 43, from London, completes 1,000 parkruns, crediting the community events with saving his life during struggles with mental health and personal issues.
