From improbability to reality! - Egham Orbit parkrun #11 - 05/04/25

It was a gorgeous sunrise over Burgess Park as we set out early to reach Egham Orbit parkrun for 0900.

When parkrun first started over two decades ago, it began as a simple concept: a communal time trial in a local park, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to come together every Saturday morning to complete 5k. This idea has fostered community spirit and promoted health and wellness in a relaxed, supportive environment. You’ll be able to read about its humble beginnings in One Small Step by Paul Sinton Hewitt, which is being released on Thursday. 

Fast forward to today, and we see countless parkruns thriving across the globe, each with its unique character and story. The existence of Egham Orbit parkrun is a heartwarming addition to this story. 

Egham is the home to The Magna Carta, which is a foundational document of English law and a symbol of individual liberties, the rule of law and our current constitutional governance. It was issued in 1215 in response to the rebellion by English barons against King John, aiming to limit the king's powers and establish certain legal rights. Since 1974 Egham has been in the Runnymede Borough of Surrey. However, with Egham Orbit parkrun starting inside the M25 and finishing inside too, I consider it part of the true LonDone challenge, which is completing all parkrun events inside the M25. Wishing to regain my LonDone crown, like King John before me, I too had to travel to Egham.  

We jumped on the train from Waterloo to Egham.

Located not in the traditional confines of a park but in a green space behind a leisure center, Egham Orbit parkrun embodies the spirit of community determination and creativity. Sam conducted this week's new runners welcome, explained the course, which is very unconventional, but is a testament to the dedication of the local residents who longed for a weekly parkrun.

Participants complete three laps around the initial green space before heading along an alleyway, under the M25, and then tackling another three laps of another small green space. Finally, you return to finish with almost two additional laps of the original green space. Sam got us to say out loud 3x3x2 to remind us of the laps required. 

You come out of the alley which is under the M25. You then do 3 laps of this small grassy, wooded area.

It is not an obvious choice for a parkrun venue; no picture postcard surroundings like Dover Waterfront parkrun, which I did last week. Yet, within this unassuming location lies this inspiring story—a vibrant community that refused to let traditional boundaries dictate their running experience. The local residents wanted their parkrun, and they made it happen. Their determination reflects a broader theme found throughout the parkrun ethos: that it’s not the location or the landscape that matters, but the people who breathe life into it.

The heart and soul of Egham Orbit parkrun, like every successful parkrun, is its volunteers. These individuals do not just support the event; they create the welcoming atmosphere that makes parkrun so special. From marshals cheering on participants with one lady giving everyone high-fives, to the timekeepers ensuring every finisher is accounted for, these kind-hearted volunteers foster a sense of belonging and motivate runners and walkers alike, embodying the inclusive spirit parkrun champions and that I’ve come to love. 

Bumping into Andrew, Ray, Kristy, Rebecca and a photo bomber!

So, whether you aim to improve your time or seek a way to connect with others, the Egham Orbit parkrun welcomes you with open arms each Saturday morning. After all, it’s not just about the personal bests you run; it’s about the moments you share and the community that builds around them. By way of example, we bumped into Andrew and Ray, whom we first met at Eastbourne parkrun back in January 2023. We’re Strava friends. However, it’s always great to bump into people in person and to swap running tales. Parkrun is a movement, and an experience where every step is a testament to the power of community spirit!

Next week I’ll be travelling to Rainham, Essex, to complete Ingrebourne Hill, the current final event outstanding in the LonDone challenge. 

Stay safe, happy running or walking and happy volunteering.

www.horizons.uk

You can order Paul Sinton-Hewitt’s book One Small Step by clicking here.