Get your running shoes on for Green Point's weekly parkrun

As the sun rises over Green Point's lush landscapes, runners from all walks of life gather to head out on a shared adventure - the local parkrun. The weekly five-kilometre event unites the community for walking, jogging, running, volunteering, and even just spectating. And the best part? It's free, fun, great for your health, and a fantastic way to make new friends in the area. 

Not just a run, it's a movement!

When Paul Sinton-Hewitt suffered an injury in 2004, he wanted to simply run with his friends. He founded the first parkrun in London, focusing on the camaraderie of running and less on the competitive side. Since then, parkruns have been launched across the world. It's not hard to see why - this is a truly welcoming and inclusive event. While each runner's performance is timed, there is no time limit and no one finishes last. The event is also open to all ages, genders, and fitness levels. In fact, it's completely common to see participants in wheelchairs, some pushing strollers, or others giving their fur babies a morning workout. 

In South Africa alone there are 200 parkrun events held every weekend and that number is still growing. Green Point's parkrun has emerged as one of the most popular local parkruns, in no small part to the incredible scenery you'll enjoy and the passionate team that makes each pavement pounding a highlight.

One step and you're in 

Green Point's parkrun takes place every Saturday at 8:00 am. All you need to do is register on the parkrun website once and bring along a scannable copy of your barcode. The barcode is used to record your time and helps you track your performance after each event. With Age Grading, the parkrun also lets you see how you're matching up with runners from your sex and age group.

If you're not up for breaking a sweat, you can still be a part of the action. The parkrun is always in need of volunteers to help as timekeepers, finish token providers, scanners, and marshals to ensure the success of the event.

Ready, set, go on the course 

You're in for a treat - the Green Point parkrun has a brand new course. Because of ongoing roadworks and disruptions, the parkrun team put together a new route that launched in June this year. After a 10-month wait, the much-anticipated parkrun offers a flat, relatively fast run, with more of the gorgeous urban park added in. 

The parkrun starts at the Green Point Park at the East Entrance (Helen Suzman Boulevard side), taking you on grassy and gravel/sand paths with stunning views. 

Safety first on your run

A parkrun can be a liberating break from your daily routine, but you should still take care to practise good etiquette and stay safe during the experience. 

1. You should only participate if you are physically able to make the five-kilometre journey.

2. At the onset, wear the right shoes and clothing to deal with uneven terrains and more rugged weather conditions. 

3. Try to arrive by foot, by pedal-power, public transport, or car-sharing to reduce your impact on the environment and the parking facilities.

4. Remember to be considerate to the park and other park users at all times. Because the parkrun uses shared paths, you should give way to other park users.

5. Always follow parkrun signage and instructions given by the parkrun's organisers. 

For your convenience, the parkrun's website provides a full list of helpful advice and tips to make it a good day out. You can also be in the know on parkrun updates by following their Facebook or Instagram pages. 

Cross the real estate finish line

The Green Point parkrun reflects the best aspects of living in the area: a close-knit community, stunning scenery, and incredible amenities. If you've fallen in love with the atmosphere of the Green Point parkrun, imagine what it would be like to make this vibrant neighbourhood your home. As the most prominent real estate company in South Africa, Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty can help you explore the exciting property opportunities in the area. View our properties for sale and properties to let and get in touch today.