Profile of a Parkrunner: Meet Sean
Meet Sean from Ballinabrackey, Co Meath, who at just 15 year of age, has completed 35 Mountlucas parkruns and counting,
Could you tell us about your parkrun journey?
I have completed 35 parkruns all in Mountlucas where last Saturday I achieved my personal best (PB) of 21 minutes and 34 seconds. Saturday morning means putting on my runners, heading to Mountlucas with my family, joining runners who have come together to get active, challenge themselves and enjoy the morning. It has become something I genuinely look forward to every week.
When I first started Mountlucas parkrun, I never expected it to become such an important part of my routine. Over the course of 35 runs, I have not only improved my running but have also met many new people and become part of a great community.
What are your favourite things about parkrun?
There is always a friendly atmosphere at Mountlucas, with runners and walkers of all different abilities taking part. Whether people are trying to achieve a new personal best or simply looking to complete the course, everyone is encouraging and supportive.
Another major benefit of parkrun for me is the impact it has on my fitness for other sports, particularly GAA. Keeping fit is an important part of playing GAA, and the running involved in parkrun helps to improve my stamina, endurance and overall fitness. It gives me a chance to work on my fitness outside of training and helps me feel better prepared for matches and other sporting activities. It is also a great way of staying active during the week and maintaining a good level of fitness throughout the year.
One of the best parts of completing a parkrun is the feeling at the finish line. Even when the run has been difficult and you are tired, there is a great sense of achievement when you cross the line. Knowing that you have pushed yourself and completed another 5km leaves you feeling proud and gives you a great start to the weekend.
I have also noticed a big improvement in my running since I started. My times have gradually become faster as I have continued to take part and build up my fitness. In my most recent parkrun, I managed to set a new personal best of 21 minutes and 34 seconds.While improving my time is something I am proud of, it is not the main reason I enjoy parkrun. For me, it is more about staying active and challenging and enjoying the experience.
The opportunity to meet new people has also made every Saturday morning more enjoyable. Seeing familiar faces and meeting new runners creates a real sense of community and makes you want to keep coming back.
What words would you use to describe Mountlucas parkrun?
Achievement, fitness and enjoyment. After 35 Mountlucas parkruns, I can look back with a great sense of achievement.The experience has helped me become fitter, improve my running and support my involvement in GAA and other sports. Most importantly, it has given me something I enjoy doing every Saturday.With 35 runs completed, I am already looking forward to the next one and seeing where the journey takes me.
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. Whether you’re walking your first 5 km or picking up your 50th, Mountlucas parkrun offers something for everyone.
For more information see http://parkrun.ie/mountlucas