Battersea Park hosted the world’s most-attended parkrun on Saturday

 

An incredible 1,117 people participated, putting the event firmly on the map. Among the attendees, it was 973 parkrunners’ first time at Battersea parkrun and 88 people’s very first parkrun ever. 

Residents have long been asking Wandsworth Council to bring parkrun to Battersea Park. The council has treated this demand as a key priority and made this local aspiration a reality, with the numbers proving just how popular it has been with local people. 

The council has worked closely with organisers to deliver the parkrun safely while allowing everyone to continue enjoying the park while the event takes place. Those taking part are also encouraged to walk, cycle, or take public transport to the parkrun, with bike racks available to make this easier for people. At Saturday’s event, only around 25 cars were parked in the nearest car parks.  

The event was also made possible by a dedicated team of 61 volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure its smooth running, reinforcing the sense of community parkrun is known for. 

Councillor Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: "We are thrilled to see Battersea Park achieve such a remarkable milestone. To see over 1,000 people in attendance is truly heartwarming and proves how much it means to people that this event takes place in this beautiful park every Saturday morning. 

“We want more people to move more, and parkrun makes it easy by being so inclusive and accessible for everyone. I would encourage everyone to come along and experience for themselves the positive impact these initiatives can have on both your physical and mental wellbeing. 

“This event wouldn’t be what it is without the selfless team of volunteers at the helm, and I want to thank them for giving up their time so local people can benefit from free, social exercise every week.” 

Councillor Judi Gasser, and Council Leader Simon Hogg celebrate the first Battersea Park parkrun

Bringing parkrun to Battersea Park is part of the Council’s Wandsworth Moves Together strategy, aiming to provide better opportunities for residents to get active in ways that suit their needs and ensure local services that support active communities are accessible and fit for the future. 

Co-event directors, Will and Jess said: "We are so pleased with the success of Battersea parkrun, and how many people have already come down to walk, jog, run, and volunteer at the event. Whilst we're establishing, we really appreciate everyone's patience and consideration for the team and other park users. Listening to the wonderful team of volunteers will ensure we can build a fun, safe and successful event for all."

How to get involved

Those interested in the Battersea parkrun can walk, jog, or cheer on participants every Saturday at 9am. All parkrun events are free to attend, but you are encouraged to register before you come to get your personal Athlete ID. This will be scanned at the end of the 5km and you will receive your results via email. Your Athlete ID can be used at any parkrun event. 

If you are interested in volunteering at the Battersea parkrun, please contact battersea@parkrun.com.