A brand new parkrun event made its debut in Glenrothes on 15 June as Riverside Park parkrun welcomed 189 participants for its inaugural run. Held at Riverside Park, close to the town centre, the event became Scotland’s 76th parkrun and has already made a positive impression on the local community.

The first event saw Jamie Lessels cross the line as the fastest male finisher in an impressive time of 16:35. The first female finisher was Jennifer Wetton who clocked 19:29. The following week on 22 June, participation grew to 232 - a sign of early enthusiasm for the newest addition to Fife’s running scene. Although the event will take a one week break on 29 June, it is set to return on 6 July, ready to pick up momentum and welcome even more participants.

Riverside Park parkrun is set on a scenic route in the heart of Glenrothes, with a course that combines tarmac, resin and trail surfaces and features moderate undulations. From the start, runners follow the path alongside the south side of the river, cross a bridge to the north side, complete a loop around the pond, then a smaller lap before retracing their steps back to the finish line near the starting point.

The park itself offers a vibrant setting with an arboretum, labyrinth, maze, various play areas, a skateboard park and sculptures throughout. Participants and volunteers gather after each event at Caffe Caffe in the Kingdom Centre for a post-parkrun coffee and a chance to connect with others in the community.

Among those taking part in the second event was Sarah Ward, who shared her experience on social media after returning to parkrun following a serious injury. Sarah praised the organisation, volunteers and supportive atmosphere, calling it a “lovely community” and expressing pride in Glenrothes for hosting its own parkrun.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Riverside Park parkrun website.

Image: Riverside Park Glenrothes parkrun Facebook