The inaugural Exmouth Parkrun, started by five time Olympian Jo Pavey on the Saturday before Christmas, was a resounding success, writes Cathy Newman.
The weather was perfect and the flat course along the seafront very popular with participants.
A large number of runners was expected but not quiet as many as the 710 finishers - making this the largest PR turnout to date in Devon. Parkrun has grown massively since 13 runners completed the first regular Saturday 5k in Bushy Park in October 2004.
Nowadays, Parkruns take place in 21 countries and the event has now clocked up millions of finishers over the years.
Given the perfect conditions, it was not surprising than many people completed the 5k course in Parkrun personal best times.
Exeter’s Sam Hopton was first finisher in 16:11 whilst highest age grade percentage went to local international age-group triathlete Jenny Reay. Jo Pavey completed the run with her son Jacob, one of many parents running with their children.
With such a large turnout including many first timers the smooth running of the event was a remarkable success.
With a potentially fast course look out for revisions to the course records.
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