Kidd’s Beach hits 600th parkrun

It was a milestone occasion reflecting fanfare, togetherness and a celebratory atmosphere, when the Kidd’s Beach Parkrun marked its 600th event on Saturday, October 3, with two South African marathon legends – Bruce Fordyce and Alan Robb – gracing the festivities.

The landmark run, brought together 268 participants — roughly 140 more than the weekly average, in perfect weather conditions along the coastal route.

To celebrate the happy occasion, regular volunteer team member, Llyn Bruce, organised a huge special cake baked by Nahoon Spar, and iced in lime green with the words “Kidd’s Beach parkrun 600” engraved on it and parkrun’s official 600-milestone colours.

Event director, Steve Bruce, expressed his deep gratitude to all past and present volunteers who have served the parkrun community since its inception on June 29 2013.

Several runners who participated in that very first event, along with past run directors and long-standing volunteers, were called on to the announcement platform to receive a special round of applause.

“The Kidd’s Beach parkrun is the eighth-longest operating parkrun in South Africa and the 2nd longest in the Eastern Cape, behind the Sunrise-on Sea parkrun,” Bruce said.

Adding true royalty to the 600th event were special guest runners, former nine times Comrades Marathon champion, Fordyce (1981–1988, 1990) and four-time winner, Robb, (1976–1978, 1980).

Both marathon legends participate in parkrun events every Saturday.
Former parkrun SA national committee member and Border running stalwart, Bob Norris, was also in attendance as a special guest.

During the pre-run briefing, Robb, Norris, and KuGompo City regional parkrun ambassador, Danie Bessenger were invited to the platform, where Bruce thanked them for their invaluable contributions to the South African parkrun movement.

Bruce also announced that an official parkrun shop would soon open in Johannesburg, making it easier and more efficient for local parkrun enthusiasts to receive milestone clothing and merchandise.

The historic run ended on a high note, leaving local runners and volunteers with memories of a day that will remain in their hearts forever.