By: Michael McAuley
Edited by H.Piel
Event Name: Parkrun – Noosa, Australia
Date: September 21, 2024
Location: Noosa, Australia
Synopsis: Parkrun’s are celebrating their 20th year and this was my first parkrun. Was nice to join with a welcoming group of runners from half way around the world. One woman was aiming for her age group PB just before turning 80.
Briefly describe the overall venue & course:
There were 223 finishers as well as volunteers and spectators but parking wasn’t an issue. The course was out and back mostly along a paved path. It doesn’t seem like anything is flat in Australia and this was no exception. There was also plenty of tree cover so no issues with getting too hot… not an issue this time of year but it can get pretty hot in Noosa in the summer.
What was provided at the aid stations?
There aren’t any aid stations other than a water spout at the start/finish area. Not an issue given the run is only 5km.
How was the weather?
Parkrun’s in Australia start at 7am. Weather was around 18-20c at the start with sunny skies.
My Race Experience:
I’ve heard about parkrun’s and was planning on doing a local one but it never happened. So when Yvonne suggested there was one in Noosa we both took the opportunity to check it out. Yvonne has done one of the local runs – Park Moussette – so she’s an expert in my books. She made sure I registered and got my official parkrun number. It’s a simple process and you can load it on your smartwatch so you can keep track of all your results.
Before the run (they aren’t called races – very inclusive) there are some announcements. General instructions on the route and then special milestones – 50th run, 100th run, 250th run, etc – along with anyone else who is outstanding. The woman who was about to turn 80 was being paced to finish with a PB… she made it with 36:17. We were the lone Canadian’s and by far the furthest from home.
My run went as I expected. I’m seasoned enough to know that six days post marathon and limited training don’t tend to offer the best results. With 223 participants, it was a bit crowded during the first km. This corresponded to my slowest km. After that I was able to get into an even pace. The route was rolling but everything in Australia is rolling so I was used to it.
Finishing and getting my first official parkrun on my list was great. We even snuck in a second parkrun in Cairns the following Saturday before rushing to the airport to fly back to Sydney. And now I need to find parkrun’s in other cities. It’s rather addictive… and it’s FREE!
Would you do this event again?
I’d do another parkrun but likely not in Noosa. The run is free but the airline ticket isn’t $$$!
Would you recommend this event?
I’d recommend a parkrun to anyone. It’s inclusive, free, and you can meet some interesting people.
Closing thoughts. Any hints for others planning to do this race? Where to stay? Things to bring? What to wear?
There are 4 local parkrun’s that I know about – Park Moussette in Aylmer, Orleans, Kanata, Stittsville. If you plan on being in Noosa, Australia then head to their parkrun but local is likely a better option. Soo Owens might be our team expert and I’m sure she’d be happy to give more details.
The run’s are held every Saturday morning (8am here, 7am in Australia) and they are run by volunteers so there’s lots of opportunity to lend a hand.
Overall Venue Rating: :
4 – Great
Please rate the course:
4 – Great
Please rate the aid stations:
NA
Run K2J 