Hiya, here to share my first session with GoodGym Bexley - parkrun volunteering!

I moved into Bexley a year ago. Being a little bit bored sitting in front of my computer at home, I decided that a light jog in the morning to the Danson Park and some chats with runners and volunteers on a Saturday morning would be a good change. It was a decision made two days before the event, but signing up was easy thanks to the clear instructions.

The sun happened to be warm and bright on the day. I was greeted by Goodgymers Sarah and Johnny, both of whom were running, among other amazing runners and volunteers at parkrun before it started.

I was on barcode scanning with three others and had the pleasure to see smiley (or wrecked AND smiley) faces at the finishing line while recording their results.

There were just over 400 runners, some alone, some with family or friends. Good vibes all around!

As one of the Run Directors at Bexley parkrun, it was my turn to oversee this morning’s event. A cool morning saw 383 participants turn up for their weekly 5k fix. Everything ran smoothly until I was handed a mobile phone left behind by one of the runners. No claimants by the time the event had finished, I made my way to Chestnuts for a coffee hoping the phone would ring and the owner would come and collect. No ring and therefore a decision had to be made as to what to do. Purely by chance, I noticed a caller on the screen and then realised the phone was on silent. After advising the caller (Dad) of our location, owner and phone were quickly reunited. An RDs life is always unpredictable 😂

Volunteering at Bexley parkrun – A Great Start to the Weekend

This weekend, I had the chance to give back to the parkrun community in a way that was both fun and fulfilling. I signed up for a volunteering task and decided to combine it with my usual run – and I’m so glad I did.

I kicked things off by running the parkrun first, getting my 5K in with a great atmosphere and energy all around. After crossing the finish line, I switched gears and jumped into my volunteering role for the post-run close down. Helping pack away and making sure everything was in order gave me a deeper appreciation for the effort that goes into making each parkrun happen.

Task completed – and I couldn’t be happier. Running followed by volunteering turned out to be the perfect combo. It felt great to contribute while still getting my usual run in.

Overall, what a fantastic way to start the weekend! I’d highly recommend volunteering when you can – it’s a simple way to support your local parkrun, meet fellow runners, and have a bit of fun while you’re at it.

Till next time! - Cecilia D. 🍀

A walk in the park literally and figuratively. I had an amazing time. Even the scorching heat couldn’t keep me from volunteering.

Volunteering isn’t just about giving your time -it’s also gaining so much in return. Benefits are endless - you will meet amazing people, you stay active and making real impact. If you are ready to feel the power of giving back, why not start now/soon?

Till next time. Stay safe all. 👋🏼😃

Special thanks to Sarah W. for taking the photo. (Say cheese!) 😁

"You can't start a fire,

You can't start a fire without a spark..."

The spark in this case was GoodGymer Graham who was making his debut as Run Director at Bexley parkrun in Danson Park. Graham had put out a call for support from fellow GG-ers and Sarah, Johnny, Susan, Ben and Tim all signed up to help, joining the amazing regular volunteers who are there every Saturday, come rain or shine.

Graham was calm and collected as he organised the volunteers into their roles, gave the main briefing to nearly 300 parkrunners, and oversaw the smooth running of the event.

Sarah W give the first timers briefing then joined Susan and Johnny as barcode scanners. Ben was a timekeeper and Tim took photos around the course.

Goodgymers Sarah L and Martin participated as parkrunners, with Sarah L also taking some photos and Martin later telling us it was his 300th parkrun. Go Martin!

Bravo Graham, you did a great job and we were proud to be there as part of your hi-vis team.

Two Goodgymers formed part of the Bexley parkrun volunteer team this morning as a Timer and Barcode scanner. Task completed we split with Peter going on to do another task in Danson Park and myself learning the ropes as parkrun Event Director.