In a stunning performance, 19-year-old Irish athlete Nick Griggs recently set a new parkrun 5K “world record,” clocking in at 13 minutes and 44 seconds at the Victoria Park event in Belfast. This achievement just edges out the previous 13:45 record set by Scottish Olympian Andrew Butchart in 2023.
However, Griggs’ record-breaking run comes during a recent period of significant controversy for parkrun. Earlier this year, parkrun decided to remove all records and performance-based statistics from its website, including “Age Category Records,” “Fastest 500,” and other metrics.
This was part of an effort to emphasize inclusivity and reduce competitive pressures that could deter new or less confident participants. Parkrun CEO Russ Jefferys explained that the intent was to lower barriers for those who might feel intimidated by a more performance-oriented environment, stating:
“Parkrun only exists to inspire people, from any background, to come together, to be social, and active, in the great outdoors. That’s it. There is no other motive. To do this we have a sharp, unwavering focus on removing the barriers to participation which persist for many people, especially for those whom physical activity may not be the norm, those who may never engage with traditional ‘sports’, or be able to afford gyms or other subscriptions, or find any inclusive and welcoming spaces for movement.”
Yet, this change sparked an outcry from parkrun regulars, many of whom argue that acknowledging top performances like Griggs’ can inspire the entire community. Critics contend that records are not just about competition but also about motivation and recognition.
An online petition, “Bring Back the Stats,” quickly gained over 26,000 signatures. Mary Taylor, who started the petition, explained:
“My son, like many other runners, has seen his course achievements vanish overnight.”
For many, these achievements symbolize personal milestones and sources of motivation. An open letter from petitioners echoed this sentiment:
“Statistics have always been an integral part of parkrun. They provide a tangible measure of improvement and motivate participants to keep striving for better results. For my son and countless others, these stats serve as a testament to their hard work and dedication. The decision to remove these statistics is disheartening, especially for those who rely on them as motivation or use them as benchmarks for their fitness goals. Without these stats, the essence of friendly competition and self-improvement that parkrun embodies is lost.”
Nick Griggs’ record-breaking run has brought this community divide back to the surface. His achievement highlights how remarkable performances can inspire runners of all abilities while enriching the parkrun experience. The challenge now is finding a balance that honors both the inclusivity goals and the motivation that personal achievements bring to the running community.
Yes, they removed those stats that majority of runners never even knew were there, so where was the problem?
How do you know this? Sucked out of thin air?
I’m a parkrun regular and I’m cool with the stats as they are. No complaints from me.
The parkrun stats have helped push me to a hive goals I never thought I would ever achieve. Over the last 13 years I have ran on and off Parkrun they inspired me to go from running 28min to under 20min something I never ever thought I would be able to do. I have met so many new friends by challenging and competing against each other for fun. We sit with a coffee after parkrun comparing our results and work out way of doing better next time. Competition is just as healthy for fitness goals and metal health as exclusivity. The competition stats are inspiring for so many it shows what you can do no matter how old, colour, gender or race, and inspired our future athletes.
No, please bring back the statistics.
99% of us look at them and value them.
It helps to meet people too because I now know their names.
This is ridiculous what parkrun did. Just woke beyond woke. Completely stupid.
I wish I’d known there was a petition going around I would have signed it too.
Me too, I’d have signed. I look for self-improvement. That doesn’t stop Parkrun being wonderfully inclusive. We can have our personal goals – or not. Now there’s no choice.
I’m a middle of the road regular parkrunner but I really miss the stats it was a great motivation
Parkrun is clear on what it’s purpose is. It’s inclusive for all, including elites. It’s a great work out and a measure of current personal conditioning for elite runners but if you want a ratifiable time on a properly measured route then there are lots of races with federation permits that can be entered.
Just another ridiculous DEI measure (which are trending away, finally). If “inclusive” for elites, include the performance stats as always. Anyone can still participate, and choose not to pay attention to the stats and enjoy their own personal achievement. World marathon records have never deterred me from running marathons. I love watching elites compete and achieve new heights in the sport, though I know those kinds of performances would never be possible for me. What a sad shame to strip Nick Griggs of his official record.
Ian Costello
How to chase away Park Runners More Like! This Sucks Like Bullying Sucks And This Smells Of Bullying Tactics 🙁
Braunstone Park Run