Introduction:

2025 was a milestone parkrun year for me, not just because of personal achievements, but because it marked ten years since my heart surgery. Looking back, parkrun has been a cornerstone of my recovery, first through volunteering and later by walking, jogging, and running. This year, I hit new personal records, explored new courses, and celebrated parkrun’s incredible impact on health and community.

A Decade of Progress

My operation was in December 2015, and early 2016 saw a spike in volunteering as I recoverdd, 10 times in just a few months. Back then, Edinburgh parkrun (Cramond) was my home course, and with 168 completions and numerous volunteer stints, it remains the one I’ve attended most.

When Oriam parkrun launched at Heriot-Watt University in 2019, I switched, closer to home and a place I used to work. Today, I’ve completed 123 of its 228 runs, making me the second most frequent participant there. I even helped get Oriam’s 200th run recorded in Parliament!

2025 Highlights

This year was my biggest yet: 46 completions, most alongside my son. Here’s where I ran:

• Oriam – 30 times
• Kirkcaldy – 4 times (my hometown!)
• Portobello – 1 time (New Year’s Day tradition)
• Auldcathie District – 3 times (a course that feels purpose-built!)
• Dunfermline – 2 times (stunning views)
• Plean – 1 time (better than I remembered!)
• Bo’ness Foreshore – 1 time (perfect for steam engine fans)
• Bushy Park – 1 time (the original parkrun!)
• Lanark Moor – 1 time (a lovely course)
• Riverside Park, Glenrothes – 1 time (sunny and scenic)
• Spring Rock, Chicago – 1 time (my first U.S. parkrun!)

Spring Rock means I’ve now completed parkruns in eight countries: Scotland, England, France, Denmark, Germany, Poland, Italy, and the USA.

Community Milestones

2025 also saw the launch of Hailes Quarry Junior parkrun near me. In just 17 weeks, kids have completed over 1,200 runs, covering 2,400 km! Huge credit to Alan Gordon and Longstone Community Council for making it happen. I volunteer there regularly.

Parkrun Turns 21

I joined MPs, parkrun staff, and CEO Elizabeth Duggan at Westminster to celebrate parkrun’s 21st anniversary. A Sheffield Hallam University study revealed parkrun delivers £689 per person per year in health and economic benefits, making it one of the UK’s most cost-effective public health initiatives.

Why Parkrun Matters

Parkrun isn’t just about fitness, it’s about community, inclusivity, and mental well-being. It’s free, accessible, and suitable for all ages and abilities. Every event I attend reinforces this: friendships formed, confidence built, and stress reduced. It’s fitness, friendship, and fun—all in one.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Here’s to more runs, more volunteering, and more milestones. If you’ve never tried parkrun, make 2026 your year—you won’t regret it. Parkrun will always be free, but you have to register to take part.