29/08/2026
Thanks to Alastair Masterton for this week's run report.
Claire
A double dip run day! Portrush parkrun – Event #672
Portrush was a particularly special one for me today - my first parkrun in NI, meaning I could add another flag to the collection and take my total to 13 countries! And, perhaps even more excitingly, this was my first ever parkrun on a beach.
I was visiting from Abergavenny, Wales, with my friend Ashley, where we are Run Directors at Llanfoist Crossing parkrun and also in the area for the Rathlin Run at 1pm.
The course heads out along the beach for around 2.5km before turning around the flag and heading back, with some absolutely cracking views along the way. There’s a handy bag drop area right by the start, as well as toilets and showers available, ideal for post paddle or dip in the sea!
Today there was a lovely little water feature/stream crossing shortly after the start. It’s completely optional, but I’d highly recommend a little splash… particularly if you happen to have a friend nearby!
Today’s event attracted 346 finishers, with visitors coming from far and wide - including from over NI, Hampshire, Abergavenny, and even Melbourne, Australia, which surely has to take the prize for furthest travelled! A special shoutout to Willowfield Harriers, who had participants at every parkrun in Northern Ireland today. What an achievement!
A huge thank you, as always, to all the volunteers who made today possible. As a Run Director, I know how much organisation and effort goes into putting on a parkrun every Saturday, and it really is appreciated.
Thanks for the welcome, Portrush - I’ll definitely be back! Afterwards, grabbed a coffee from Chosen Coffee, whose van is conveniently located in the car park - the perfect post-parkrun refuel.
And if any of you find yourselves visiting Wales, make sure you come and see us at Llanfoist Crossing parkrun in Abergavenny. We’d love to welcome you!
Alastair
