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01 Jan 2026

Medley of celebrations at New Year's Day parkrun at popular Offaly venue

There was a record number in attendance at Mountlucas parkrun with 140 walkers, joggers and runners completing the 5km looped course, as well as a large number of volunteers and supporters

Michael

Michael Cronly and supporters after completing his 200th parkrun

There was a medley of celebrations at the special New Year's Day parkrun event at Mountlucas parkrun, held on New Year's Day.

There was a record number in attendance with 140 walkers, joggers and runners completing the 5km looped course, as well as a large number of volunteers and supporters.

A large proportion of the supporters were there to mark Michael Cronly's 200th parkrun. He had close to 20 friends and family in attendance to cheer him across the finish line. Michael has been taking part in Mountlucas parkrun since July 2017 and has completed all but 14 of his 200 parkruns at Mountlucas parkrun.

Speaking to Michael after the event he said "I was surprised at how many of my family turned out to help me celebrate my 200th run- 19 in total, and all the parkrunners that wished me well. That's what makes the Mountlucas parkrun so special, everyone makes you feel very welcome. Long may it continue."

PJ Carroll (pictured below) also celebrated a milestone on the day, completing his 300th parkrun. PJ has completed the majority of his parkruns at nearby Vicarstown parkrun but joined in the New Year's celebratory atmosphere atmosphere at Mountlucas to complete his 300th parkrun there.

There were four in attendance who completed their 25th parkrun; Patricia Mulpeter, Niamh Bowyer, Catherine Galvin, and Fiona Glennon. Dylan Yarrow also completed his 10th parkrun. Well done everyone!

Mountlucas parkrun started on 1st July 2017. Since then 2,635 participants have completed 18,641 parkruns covering a total distance of 93,205 km, including 2,430 new Personal Bests.

Mountlucas parkrun takes place at Bord na Móna Mountlucas windfarm every Saturday morning at 9.30am sharp. There's something for everyone at Mountlucas parkrun whether you want to walk, run, volunteer or just meet new people.

Parkrun isn’t just a timed run: it’s about community, inclusivity, and wellbeing. Every event at Mountlucas brings together people of all ages and abilities, creating a warm, encouraging atmosphere. Whether you’re walking your first 5 km or picking up your 50th, Mountlucas parkrun offers something for everyone.

For more information see

http://parkrun.ie/mountlucas

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