In the rolling hills of Bridgend, Wales, 85-year-old Eric Hughes laces up his running shoes with the same enthusiasm he’s had for decades. His story, recently highlighted by the BBC, is not just about personal achievements but about fostering a community spirit that’s helping to shape the future of athletics in the UK.

The Parkrun Phenomenon

Parkrun, a free weekly 5km event, has become a global sensation since its humble beginnings in London back in 2004. What started as a small gathering of running enthusiasts has blossomed into a worldwide movement, with over 1,200 locations across the globe. At the heart of this phenomenon in Bridgend is Eric Hughes, a man whose passion for running is matched only by his dedication to nurturing new talent.

“I think eventually we’ll have such good athletes in this country and that’s because of the Parkrun,” Hughes told the BBC, his eyes alight with the possibility of what these community events could achieve.

Hughes has volunteered at more than 500 Parkruns, a testament to his commitment to the sport and the community. But it’s not just about clocking miles for him. What really gets Hughes excited is seeing children as young as four taking part in these events.

“Some of them are very young, and when they arrive the first time with their parents, they do one or two runs with them, but then they insist they want to run on their own,” he explained, pride evident in his voice.

A Lifelong Passion for Running

Hughes’s running career is the stuff of legend in local athletic circles. His achievements span decades and include:

• Participating in 18 British Masters Championships, bringing home a medal from each event
• Running alongside his twin brother Lynn in 1967 when Lynn broke the world four-hour barrier for 40 miles on a track in Cardiff
• Winning a steeplechase race despite breaking both ankles during the event – a feat that showcases his extraordinary determination

Recalling the ankle-breaking incident, Hughes said with characteristic understatement, “I slipped and thought I’d sprained my ankle and kept on running, but later found out I’d broken them.” This grit and perseverance have defined Hughes’s approach to running throughout his life.

Giving Back to the Community

Now, in his golden years, Hughes has shifted his focus from personal achievements to nurturing the next generation of runners. He’s a familiar face at the Bridgend Parkrun on Saturdays and the junior version in Porthcawl on Sundays, where he helps organize and encourage participants of all ages.

Steve Brace, director of Porthcawl Parkrun, speaks highly of Hughes’s contribution: “Eric is setting an example to the relative youngsters around him. He’s an important part of the volunteer community who make it safe for others to enjoy – week in, week out – whatever the weather.”

This commitment to volunteering stems from Hughes’s desire to “give something back” to the sport that has been such a significant part of his life. His efforts are helping to create a welcoming environment for runners of all abilities, from complete beginners to seasoned athletes.

Age is Just a Number

Hughes’s own running journey is far from over. On his 85th birthday, he demonstrated that age is truly just a number by participating in a Parkrun alongside his great-grandson. While he initially planned to walk the course, the competitive spirit that has driven him throughout his life took over.

“I intended on walking it, but when I got there with my great-grandson, I decided to run it. He beat me by seven minutes,” Hughes admitted with a chuckle. This race, spanning four generations of his family, encapsulates the inclusive spirit of Parkrun and the timeless appeal of running.

The Future of Running

The growth of Parkrun in Bridgend mirrors its success elsewhere. Hughes has witnessed the local event grow from about 30 runners to 200, while the Porthcawl senior run now boasts around 500 regular participants. This surge in popularity is creating a new culture of running that transcends age, ability, and background.

Hughes believes that these community events are key to identifying and nurturing future athletic talent. By providing a non-intimidating environment for people to try running, Parkrun is opening doors for individuals who might never have considered themselves athletes.

Moreover, the social aspect of these events is fostering a sense of community and belonging. Runners of all ages come together each week, not just to improve their times but to enjoy the camaraderie and shared sense of achievement.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Eric Hughes’s journey from competitive runner to community organizer and mentor embodies the positive impact one individual can have on a sport and a community. His story serves as an inspiration to runners of all ages, proving that passion for sport and community involvement can be lifelong pursuits.

As organized running events like Parkrun continue to grow in popularity, they may indeed play a crucial role in shaping the future of athletics in the UK. By breaking down barriers to participation and creating a supportive environment for runners of all abilities, these events are nurturing a love for athletics that spans generations.

Eric Hughes’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive medal collection. Through his ongoing commitment to running and community, he’s helping to ensure that the future of athletics in the UK remains bright, inclusive, and firmly rooted in the joy of simply putting one foot in front of the other.

Source: BBC News