What kind of parkrunner are you?

By Ricci McGreevey – Parkrun Australia

Within the world of parkrun, there are many different types of parkrunners. From the millions of people who turn up at a parkrun around Australia, you are bound to spot one of the following types of parkrunners. But, the big question is, what kind of parkrunner are you?

The Speedster

This is someone who is always after a PB. They can usually be seen doing a warm up run followed by some weird looking warm up exercises. They will then position themselves close to the start line with an expression set to seriously focussed. As soon as the stopwatch clicks, these runners set off like a t-rex is chasing them.

Tourist Fanatics

These parkrunners are a rare breed. They are adventurous at heart and love to travel, but they are also meticulous planners. Their travel destinations always need to coincide with a Saturday, also known as parkrun day. These parkrunners are also known to have very early starts to reach the certain place by the time the briefing begins. Google maps, alarm clocks and spreadsheets are a tourist fanatics best friend.

The Gear and Gadget Guru

We all know (and love) a gear and gadget guru! These are the parkrunners with all the bells and whistles, completely kitted out in the latest high-tech, moisture wicking, reflective gear. These guys and gals have the latest shoes and accessories including belts, anti-blister socks, anti-chaffing balms, GPS watches, sports tape over every moving joint and of course every bit of apparel is compression.

Human and K9

parkrunners with parkdogs are always popular around the parkrun scene. Who doesn’t love a cute little pup? Ironically, the human with K9 often prefers the company of dogs over people.

The parktalker

The parktalker exists at every parkrun around Australia. This is someone who is definitely there for the social scene. They talk before the start, they talk during the briefing, they talk whilst running or walking to anyone in the vicinity, they talk whilst scanning and they are more often than not, talking over coffee at the post run café.

The Stats Junkie

Who doesn’t love a stats junkie?! These are the ones who are constantly spewing out stats about anything and everything parkrun related. Popular areas for the stat junkie are PBs, most number of runners for any given parkrun event, fastest ever parkrun times, total number of parkruns around Australia, average parkrun times….seriously, parkrun is a stats junkie’s dream.

The Vivacious Vollie

A vivacious vollie is a well loved person in the parkrun community. These are the people who are all about volunteering and they love doing something positive for the community. These people are often caring in their nature, are good at chatting, can work in a team and have good problem solving skills. They’re also adaptable and can fill any role from tail walker to timekeeper. A much loved and valuable addition to any parkrun.

The Pram Runner

We’ve all been overtaken by a pram runner before. These mums and dads can be surprisingly speedy despite pushing the extra kgs. The average parkunner has every admiration for these stoic parents. I mean, respect! Most of us can’t get ourselves to parkrun on time, let alone another child (or two) complete with a pram, baby carrier, snacks, blankets, books and other assorted paraphernalia.

The Total Addict

These people can’t go five minutes without mentioning parkrun in general conversation. Think about it, everyone is guilty of this one! Such is the fascination and love of parkrun.