Maribyrnong parkrun is preparing to celebrate older participants who walk, run and volunteer as part of an ‘Over 80’s celebration day’ on Saturday, September 23.
The free weekly event is one of 470 parkruns held every Saturday morning in parks and open spaces nationwide.
Parkrun said there is no age limit, everyone is welcome to walk or run the 5km course.
People can help out in a range of volunteering roles, or simply spectate and support, the events recognise regular participation rather than performance.
Since parkrun started in 2011,1266 people around the country aged 80 and over have walked and run at parkrun events a combined total of 34,379 times.
544 individuals in this age group have collectively volunteered more than 8000 times.
Maribyrnong parkrun volunteer and co-event director Chris Wootton, said the parkrun event itself will operate as normal, but there will be an extra focus on encouraging older people and their families to come along and on celebrating their involvement.
“Parkrun is a wonderful inter generational activity because there are so many ways to participate,” he said.
“It enables multiple generations from the same family to take part, and it encourages people to have conversations with other locals of different ages who they otherwise might not interact with.
“The older people who take part in our parkrun are an inspiration to all of us, and we would love to see some new faces at our celebration day.
“You don’t have to run either you can walk, volunteer or come along for a chat. There is something at parkrun for everybody, and it’s free.”
Parkrun said it places a strong emphasis on building community connections, and everyone is invited to The Boathouse for a coffee and a chat after the event.
Registration is free at www.parkrun.com.au/register.
Details: www.parkrun.com.au/maribyrnong/
