The 488th Northala Fields parkrun, held on March 8, 2025, was a truly special occasion. This week’s event was entirely run by members of Ealing, Southall & Middlesex (ESM) Athletics Club, who took full charge of every volunteer role—from timekeeping to barcode scanning and marshalling. It was a perfect celebration of the community spirit that makes parkrun so unique, bringing together runners, volunteers, and supporters for a fantastic morning of fitness and connection.
Parkrun has always been 100% reliant on volunteers, and today’s event was a wonderful reminder of the dedication and enthusiasm that keep it going. In fact, ESM has a deep-rooted connection to Northala Fields parkrun. It was none other than our own Fiona Kennedy who first had the idea of setting up a new 5k course here back in the summer of 2013. She, along with a small team including myself, helped plan, test, and launch the event. The very first Northala Fields parkrun took place on June 21, 2014, and now, over a decade later, it continues to thrive thanks to an incredible 1,179 volunteers who have contributed their time over the years.
Today’s event was led by Catherine Gunnewicht, who took the duty of ‘Run Director’ and did a fantastic job organising a team of 26 ESM volunteers. Their enthusiasm was evident throughout the morning, from the cheering marshals to the friendly barcode scanners. The weather couldn’t have been better—a bright, sunny morning that lifted everyone’s spirits. To add to the atmosphere, music was playing, helping to motivate runners as they made their way around the scenic course.
A total of 309 runners took part, ranging from experienced athletes to first-timers. As always, the beauty of parkrun lies in its inclusivity—whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply enjoying a social jog, everyone is welcome. Beyond the fun and sense of community, parkrun offers numerous health benefits. Regular participation helps improve cardiovascular fitness, mental well-being, and overall physical health. Events like parkrun show that running is more than just a sport—it’s a way to connect with others and promote a healthier lifestyle.
The all-ESM volunteers takeover made today’s parkrun extra special, and we extend a huge thank you to everyone who gave up their time to make it happen. It was a fantastic reminder of the club’s strong connection to Northala Fields parkrun and the power of community involvement.