team kerr

running and rolling together

A recent addition to the NI parkrun list, we ran at their 7th event. The downsides first - parking (of which there is loads) is across a busy road at Dixon Playing Fields.  There are traffic lights for crossing so it is probably fine for most folk (unless you've an escape artist child, like Ben!). Toilet – bring 20p to use a spaceship style facility that really would be a nightmare for anyone with sensory difficulties.  Aside from this, this is a very friendly and welcoming parkrun, which is already attracting 120-130 runners every week.  It takes place around a varied, multi terrain type course and offers considerably more hills and challenge that the nearby parkruns at Ormeau, Victoria and Stormont.  Runners meet at the edge of the park (Grand Parade end) and walk down to the start point where the run brief is held.  Everyone then turns 180 degrees and runs in the opposite direction, which caught us unawares and for the 1st time we started a run almost on front line! There is a small inner lap that then leads into 3 larger laps across bridges, tarmac, gravel, small trail section and up and down a few challenging hills. I don’t recall any significant obstacles but the most significant downhill is likely to be quite slippy in wet weather.  It is a tough but enjoyable run on an undulating course and is well worth a visit, but it might not be totally suitable for a road racing chair.

ORANGEFIELD