Belfast Parkruns - Same City, Different Experiences

 

Usually, every Saturday I participate in my local parkrun with one goal in mind. Do better than last week. Therefore, I am usually under a lot of pressure. That is why I like to participate in different parkruns to release the pressure, and to have more fun. Fortunately, for the last couple of weeks I was able to get the time to try the parkruns in Belfast, in what I like to call a Belfast tour. Now that the tour is over for the time being (I still have four more to do) I want to share the experience and show the benefits of parkruns. 

Firstly, it started with Stormont. As the name implies, it takes place in the beautiful Stormont estate. Out of the parkruns that I have done in Belfast it is definitely the most scenic. However, you can’t get too caught up in sightseeing as you still have to get over the hills. Stormont parkrun is a standard two lap parkrun with no changes between laps, so you don’t have to worry about where you are going in the second lap. The downhill in front of the parliament building is very deceiving, as it feels like you are not moving any closer to the finish. I recommend Stormont parkrun if you are in Belfast as a tourist, as it is very scenic, offers a decent challenge.  




(Image description: Me running in Stormont Parkrun)

Secondly, is Ormeau.  Ormeau is probably the biggest parkrun in terms of participants and volunteers. Therefore, Ormeau has a very positive atmosphere. As for the course itself, it is two lap courses with the second lap being longer. The course is flat which makes it a very quick parkrun, so if you like getting quick times or avoid hills then this parkrun is for you. Just be careful, because there is a very sneaky hill at the start of the second lap. 





(Image description: Me at Ormeau Parkrun)


Finally, Falls parkrun. This parkrun is for the hardcore runners as it is as hilly as Rostrevor. The course is three laps with the first lap being shorter than the rest. The hardest part is the hill next to the football pitch during the second and third lap, which is very steep. Once, you run up it for the first time you have to deal with the dreaded feeling of running up it again for the second lap. At least you don’t have to worry about getting lost as every turn has a white arrow on the ground pointing which way to go. Falls parkrun also doesn't have that many participants in it, so if you want to do a quiet parkrun then Falls would be a good choice. If you don’t mind hills. 




 

(Image description; Me at Falls Parkrun)

Overall, the Belfast tour was a positive experience, as I got to see Belfast in a more positive light. I got to see the communities and the beautiful scenery Belfast has to offer. It also took my mind off getting good times as I had nothing to compare to. Hopefully in the future there will be a sequel to the Belfast tour.  



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