Parkrun, a free weekly 5-kilometer running event that started in the UK, has inspired runners to travel extensively to different locations worldwide.
Enthusiasts from countries such as Japan, London, New York, and Berlin are joining events globally, often combining running with cultural exploration.
>>> Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake Hits Naples, Causes Cliff Collapse
Parkrun began in 2004 and now hosts over 2,300 events in more than 20 countries.
Participants receive a barcode that acts as a passport to any Parkrun event worldwide.
The events have no prizes or medals; instead, runners earn flag icons on their Parkrun app profiles for participating abroad.
Runners Share Their Travel Stories
Frank McLoughlin, an avid Parkrun tourist from Dublin, started running in 2013 and has since traveled to numerous countries, including Namibia, Eswatini, Singapore, and South America.
"Namibia is a beautiful place, the desert runs into the sea. And Eswatini had the friendliest people, they were so nice and delighted to see tourism," Frank said.
He explained that his vacations often revolve around Parkrun events.
"Last night I was sitting here and I said I think I'm going to go to Boston for Thanksgiving, so four of us booked.
We will have a few days in Boston but the starting point was Parkrun."
Frank also shared his extensive travel plans: "I realised when I had done everything I wanted in South America, I could have two weeks left.
I could go to South Africa or Australia, but it was cheaper to have five days in Japan and five in Singapore."
