Emma Maloney invites Enfield children to join a weekly fun run for juniors

*Children warming up before they take on the challenge of Enfield Junior Parkrun, which takes place every Sunday morning in Town Park*

Parkrun, first started in 2004, has become a well-known running event for adults across the world every Saturday morning.

Runners of all abilities show up to complete their local course and try to beat their personal best, usually in a local park. Grovelands Park in Southgate and Pymmes Parks in Edmonton both host weekly events.

But did you know there is also a Parkrun for juniors? And that Enfield has its very own? Every Sunday throughout the year, at 9am come rain or shine, children aged from four to 14 gather for this free event in Enfield’s Town Park to run, walk, hop or skip the two-kilometre course. Each child is given a finish token and their time is recorded so they can see how they have performed each week.

Part of the reason to launch the event was that Enfield is a borough where 40% of children aged ten or eleven are obese, one of the highest rates in London. But we also recognise that families may simply be looking for free, fun activities for their children.

The Town Park event has been running since early 2020 (although with a long pandemic break) and now sees up to around 80 children taking part, at no expense. It is amazing to see how capable these youngsters are, often leaving their parents who try to run with them behind! For those who prefer more of a saunter, then they will be welcomed with equal joy and applause.

No children ever come last, as we always have a ‘tail-walker’ who is the final person to cross the finish line. Regulars will be awarded their half-marathon and marathon wristbands to reward them for their efforts.

If you fancy coming along to give it a go, we would love to see you. Beginners are always welcome; there’s a first-timers briefing at 8.50am, plus a quick warm-up to get everyone raring to go.

I look forward to see you in your running shoes soon!

For more information and to sign up for Parkrun Juniors:
Visit parkrun.org.uk/enfieldtown-juniors

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