### Runner, 97, Breaks European Parkrun Record with 250th Event
In a remarkable display of determination and vitality, 97-year-old Grace Chambers has made history by becoming Europe’s oldest Parkrun participant to reach the 250-run milestone. Her achievement came to fruition during a 5k run at the scenic Ormeau Park, situated in the heart of south Belfast. Grace’s exuberant spirit and commitment to running is particularly notable given that she recently underwent surgery to have a stent fitted just four weeks prior to this momentous event. Nevertheless, her steadfast resolve was clear as she participated in the Saturday run, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s passions.
Grace’s journey in running began quite late in life when she was just 88 years old. Surprisingly, she has managed to achieve impressive landmarks since then, expressing that she has no intention of slowing down any time soon. The energy and enthusiasm she brings to the sport are infectious; her story functioned as a powerful narrative on the importance of health, fitness, and community engagement amongst the elderly. Every Saturday, she participates in Parkrun events, fostering connections with fellow runners, and breathing life into a social atmosphere that she describes as wonderfully diverse.
The origins of her newfound passion stem from a fortuitous encounter with a staff member from her rehabilitation team. This individual, who volunteered at the Ormeau Parkrun, encouraged Grace to try her hand at the event. With the gentle nudging of one of her daughters and the supportive community that awaited her, she decided to give it a try in 2016, quickly becoming the talk of the town. Her humor shines through as she recalls how others were astonished by her presence in a community event predominantly filled with much younger participants.
Grace has persisted through adversity, not even allowing the temporary suspension of Parkrun events during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep her away. Demonstrating true grit, she kept her routine alive by running on her own, insisting that she maintained a record of all her times even while the official events were on hold. Her commitment not only showcases a personal resolve but inadvertently inspires others around her, challenging the stereotype that physical activity is only for the young.
Grace’s legacy is further cemented by the recognition she now enjoys. She has a bench at the Ormeau Parkrun named “Grace’s Bench, Park Runner Extraordinaire,” which has become a favorite spot for fellow participants to gather after their runs. The community affectionately surrounds Grace, and she routinely finds herself at the center of attention during these events, often taking photos with admirers and well-wishers. This connection to her community extends to notable figures as well—Olympians have been known to join her in the park, including Dame Kelly Holmes, who once playfully urged Grace to pick up the pace while they chatted mid-run.
As she celebrated her 250th run, Grace’s initial plan faced an unexpected challenge due to her recent surgery. During her recovery, she only missed one week of Parkrun, showcasing her delightfully stubborn attitude towards health and fitness. Commenting on her surgery, she humorously expressed, “I told the surgeon I was going to test out his work. I’ve got a new valve, why would I not use it?” This statement not only underlines her spirited personality but also reflects her proactive approach toward life, making her a figure of inspiration in the realm of senior athletics.
Despite the surrounding admiration, Grace maintains a humble outlook on her achievements, stating, “So what! Many people do much more remarkable things than this.” Her primary desire is to inspire others, particularly those in her age group, to partake in physical activities. She hopes her journey encourages more people to lace up their running shoes and join the community, aiming not just for records but for the joy of participation and engagement.
In conclusion, Grace Chambers stands as a beacon of hope and vitality within the running community. She proves that endurance and enthusiasm have no age limit and that running can connect individuals across various walks of life. With cheers from her community members and a growing national recognition, Grace exemplifies the spirit of Parkrun, reinforcing the notion that each participant has a story to share, and together, they create a vibrant tapestry of resilience and camaraderie.
