Success of Buncrana parkrun’s ninth anniversary celebrations
The first week of a national ‘Couch to parkrun’ programme was also Buncrana parkrun’s ninth anniversary last Saturday.
Parkrun, an international movement to allow people to run or walk a timed 5k route weekly, was set up in 2004 in the UK by Paul Sinton-Hewitt. It has become phenomenally popular, celebrating its millionth event this year.
Since Buncrana parkrun started on 9 September 2026 on the Shore path on Aileach Road, an incredible 4,089 walkers, runners and joggers have participated. This has included dog walkers, wheelchair users and those pushing buggies, as well as accomplished athletes. Participants are invited to the Fisherman’s Wharf café afterwards to enjoy tea, coffee, treats and friendship.
Buncrana parkrun regularly brings Buncrana’s coastal path to the attention of visitors from all over the world, including repeated visits by a large number of ‘parkrun tourists’ from Northern Ireland. Many local participants have commented on how much regular participation in parkrun has improved their physical and mental health.
The 89 participants last Saturday included 25 visitors from Tralee parkrun who had made a special journey to join in the celebrations, emphasising the special relationship between Buncrana and Tralee parkruns. A team from Tralee were instrumental in getting Buncrana parkrun started on 9 September 2017.
Before everyone set off, Tricia Coyle led a fun and energic warm up. There was plenty of home baking, tea and coffee, to greet the runners and walkers once they returned. 21 volunteers made sure that the morning ran smoothly.
Tralee parkrun Event Director Siobhan Kearney said: “Thanks to everyone at Buncrana parkrun for making us all feel so welcome. The Tralee parkrunners really enjoyed the out and back coastal path. We look forward to the Buncrana gang visiting Tralee in the near future.”
Adenike Anifawose of Sanctuary Runners said: “A massive thank you to all the amazing volunteers, runners, walkers, joggers, supporters and parkrun legends who have made Buncrana parkrun what it is today.
“Here’s to nine brilliant years and many, many more Saturday mornings by the shore!”
If you would like to join Buncrana parkrun, pop down any Saturday morning at 9.15am and join in – it’s free, thanks to the wonderful team of local volunteers who organise it every week.
You can also find more information or register at www.parkrun.ie.