Mountlucas Parkrun profile: Meet Darren Groome
Mountlucas Parkrun compiled this Q&A profile of Darren Groome, who recently completed his 50th parkrun at Mountlucas parkrun
When did you complete your first parkrun?
I completed my first parkrun back in June 2018, after finishing a 'Couch to 5K' training block through my workplace, Bord na Móna in Newbridge.
Our raceday run took place at Mountlucas windfarm during the Saturday morning parkrun. It was my first time hearing about parkrun and I thought it was a brilliant idea.
What is your favourite thing about parkrun?
One of my favourite things about Mountlucas is its setting, the peaceful isolation of the peatlands and the vast open space. Over the past 12 months I have really thrown myself into running, completing around 30 parkruns in that time.
I love the variety parkrun offers and how it truly caters for everyone. You can be finished and back in your car within 30 minutes, or you can take your time, walk, and socialise before, during and after the walk or run.
How does it feel to have reached the significant milestone of 50 parkruns?
There is a strong community spirit in Mountlucas. The organisers and volunteers are fantastic, and you can see the time, effort and passion they put into making Mountlucas a real community hub.
I have set a couple of PBs (personal bests) here over the years, and there is no better feeling than crossing the finish line on top of the world, knowing that just two minutes earlier you were battling with yourself to keep going.
What words best describe Mountlucas parkrun?
Mountlucas parkrun is a fantastic amenity for the surrounding communities, and I will certainly keep showing up on as many Saturday mornings as I can. Words that best describe Mountlucas parkrun: Friendly, welcoming, peaceful, and community driven.
Mountlucas parkrun takes place at Bord na Móna Mountlucas windfarm every Saturday morning at 9.30am sharp. There's something for everyone at Mountlucas parkrun whether you want to walk, run, volunteer or just meet new people. For more information see http://parkrun.ie/mountlucas