Weekly parkrun at Glenrothes' Riverside Park is turning one

Since launching in Riverside Park last June, the Glenrothes parkrun has quickly become one of the town’s most uplifting weekly traditions — a Saturday‑morning burst of energy, community spirit and fresh air that continues to grow in popularity.

What began as a small gathering of local runners and walkers has developed into a thriving event attracting participants of all ages and abilities.

Families, seasoned runners, beginners, and volunteers now come together each week to complete the free, timed 5k route through one of Glenrothes’ most scenic green spaces.

Organisers say the success of the event reflects a wider appetite for accessible, social physical activity. With no cost, no time pressure and no barriers to entry, parkrun has become a welcoming space for people looking to improve their fitness, meet new people, or simply enjoy a friendly start to the weekend.

The park’s paths and open spaces have proven the perfect backdrop, and the volunteer team — from marshals to timekeepers — has been praised for creating a warm, encouraging atmosphere that keeps people coming back.

Participants have credited the event with boosting wellbeing, building confidence, and strengthening community ties. Many participants say they never considered themselves “runners” before joining, but now look forward to the weekly event as a highlight of their routine.

With attendance continuing to rise, organisers hope even more people from Glenrothes and surrounding areas will come along, whether to walk, jog, run or volunteer.

This weekend will see them mark the event’s first birthday.

Andrew Aird, event director, said: “Riverside Park parkrun has become a real community anchor.

"Every Saturday we see people who might never otherwise meet encouraging each other, laughing together and starting their weekend on a positive note.

"You absolutely don’t need to be a runner to take part.

"Many people walk the course, some bring buggies, others come with friends or family. The only goal is to enjoy yourself.

"Finish times range from 18 minutes to 60 minutes and and thanks to our tail walker volunteer nobody finishes last.

Our volunteers are the heart of the event. Their enthusiasm and encouragement create the atmosphere that makes Riverside Park parkrun so special and attracts so much positive feedback from those taking part.

"If you’ve ever thought about giving parkrun a try, but haven't made it along then Riverside Park is the perfect place to start. Come along, take it at your own pace, and be part of something hugely positive. You don't need fancy sports gear, all you need to do is register online (www.parkrun.org.uk/register/) and bring the barcode you are sent with you to get a time recorded.”

Since its launch, there have been 48 parkruns held in Glenrothes with 3792 different finishers crossing the finish line. In total, 9557 people have completed the parkruns.

The average finish time for the course is 32 minutes, 19 seconds.

Over the last 12 months, 341 people have filled 1330 volunteer roles to ensure that the events can go ahead each week.

The parkrun takes place at 9.30am every Saturday.

Find out more at www.parkrun.org.uk