Big Turnout for Ballymena Junior parkrun as Kids Hit the Ground Running

More than 100 children are now taking part each week in the new junior parkrun event at The People’s Park in Ballymena. The free Sunday morning 2K run for children aged 4–14 has quickly become popular with local families, promoting fitness, confidence and community spirit.

Ballymena Junior parkrun Attracts Huge Weekly Crowds

A growing number of young runners are lacing up their trainers every Sunday morning as the new Ballymena junior parkrun continues to build momentum at The People’s Park.

Since launching at the end of March, more than 100 children have been attending the free weekly event, which takes place every Sunday at 9.30am.

The 2K run is designed for children aged between four and 14 years old and has quickly become a popular addition to family life in Ballymena. Organisers say the focus is not on competition, but on helping children stay active, build confidence and enjoy the outdoors in a fun and supportive environment.

Community Support Helps Ballymena Junior parkrun Thrive

The Ballymena junior parkrun was made possible through start-up funding provided by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Radius Housing and GlobeWeigh Group.

Radius Housing’s contribution came through the Department for Communities and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme as part of the St Patrick’s Good Relations plan.

The event has created what organisers describe as a safe and welcoming space where children can exercise outdoors while families connect with others in the local community.

Mayor Praises Positive Atmosphere at The People’s Park

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Jackson Minford, attended the event on Sunday and praised the strong turnout and community spirit surrounding the junior parkrun.

He said:

“I was delighted to join the runners and their families for what was a thoroughly enjoyable morning in The People’s Park. There was such a great atmosphere, it was fantastic to see the junior parkrun off to such a strong start with so many young people getting active and making the most of this wonderful local space.”

He also encouraged more people to support the event and the volunteers who help make it happen every week.

Volunteers Needed to Support Growing Event

Behind the scenes, volunteers play a major role in keeping the Ballymena junior parkrun running smoothly each week.

From marshalling the route to cheering participants over the finish line, organisers say community volunteers are essential to the event’s success.

Parents, grandparents and young people working towards Duke of Edinburgh or Gaisce Awards are all being encouraged to get involved.

Advance registration is recommended for runners, with participants asked to bring their barcode along each week.

Useful Links

• Official junior parkrun website
• The People’s Park Ballymena junior parkrun page
• Mid and East Antrim Borough Council
• Radius Housing

For volunteering and event enquiries:
thepeoplesparkballymenajuniors@parkrun.com

Why Junior parkrun Is Growing in Popularity Across Northern Ireland

Junior parkrun events have become increasingly popular across Northern Ireland in recent years, offering children a free and inclusive way to stay active.

The Ballymena junior parkrun is already showing strong signs of becoming a regular fixture for local families, with organisers hopeful that participation numbers will continue to grow throughout the summer months.