What does it mean for a champion athlete to engage with their community? For Dame Laura Kenny, a five-time Olympic gold medallist, it means celebrating the spirit of togetherness at events like the Alderley Park parkrun, which she attended as part of the National Lottery Open Week.
The National Lottery Open Week, which ran from March 7 to 15, aims to promote community engagement through various activities, including the popular parkrun events. More than 1,300 parkruns and junior parkruns across the UK benefit from National Lottery funding, raising an impressive £32 million each week from players.
During her visit, Kenny expressed her affection for the area, stating, “I love living in the area and was delighted to come to parkrun today to celebrate National Lottery Open Week.” Her presence at the event not only inspired participants but also highlighted the importance of community in sports.
Parkrun, a free, weekly, timed 5k event held every Saturday morning, is designed to be inclusive. Kenny emphasized this sentiment, noting, “Parkrun brings everyone together. It doesn’t matter how fast you are or how fit you are, anyone can attend.” This ethos resonates with many who participate, fostering a sense of belonging.
As the president of Team England, Kenny’s influence extends beyond her athletic achievements. Her commitment to promoting active lifestyles and community involvement was palpable during the event. Tamara Morewood, a participant, remarked, “Her passion for getting people active and enjoying the outdoors was incredibly infectious and it made today’s event feel really special.”
The joy and enthusiasm were evident, with fellow participant Jane Morewood stating, “The reaction from everyone was just wonderful. You could see their smiles from a mile off.” Such moments encapsulate the essence of what parkrun represents: a community united through physical activity.
As Kenny trains for the upcoming London Marathon, her dedication to both her sport and her community remains unwavering. Events like the Alderley Park parkrun serve as a reminder of the vital role that community plays in sports, especially in the context of the Commonwealth Games and beyond.
While the details of her marathon training remain a topic of interest, the immediate impact of her participation in local events like parkrun is clear. It not only promotes fitness but also strengthens community bonds.
As the conversation around community engagement in sports continues, Kenny’s involvement is a shining example of how athletes can inspire and uplift their local areas.