Cow cowls are worn by parkrun tourists as an easy way of recognising each other on our visits. You can wear them at your home event as well. Cowfests started a few years ago as a way of selecting one event on a particular day that tourists could try to attend as a meet-up. In 2022 they were spread geographically, and NI had its first one at Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun.
Special selfie frames were produced for the different regions, and I have been carefully hanging on the the Norn Irn one all year.
In 2023 the venue chosen was Citypark Craigavon. Venues ideally have good facilities, parking, loos, cafe etc, as well as being easy to get to.
The core team at Citypark embraced the whole idea, and had a special cake produced.
RD Johnny sported cow ears and tail, and jingled his cowbells.
The cafe did a special bacon bap and a cuppa deal.
Tourists came from far and wide – Steven Alder and co flew in from London on the 6 am flight and were catching the last flight home again. A couple from Lincoln had been here for over a week, and had done their 200th event barefoot at Narin beach the previous Saturday. Others had been spending a few days seeing the sights.
Someone came up from Cabinteely, Dublin.
The selfie frame was very popular, though it was difficult herding all the cows together for a group photo.
There was lots of laughter and sharing of stories and memories. Someone even remembered me from when I produced a bottle of Bush whiskey for those who had “double Bushied”. And the crack continued in the cafe afterwards.
It was fantastic to see so many people, and big thanks to the team at Citypark for making us all so welcome.
Now, I’d better store that selfie board safely till next year!
Reason for visit – need something special for my arbitrary 350th, of course!
There are some parkruns which are on the “must do” bucket list, and Inis Meain, one of the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland, has rapidly secured its place on that list.
I’d been gutted when I couldn’t make a previous UK parkrun tourists group visit, as I was travelling to Scotland that day, see Deputy dawg blog. So I was delighted to find that another semi organised trip was planned for the end of August. And, more excitingly, this would be my 350th parkrun!
Milestones are hard won: you maybe get a 50 T shirt after little more than a year’s parkrunning, with the 100 shirt another year away. Then it’s a whole 3 years plus wait for a 250 shirt, and another FIVE years minimum before a 500 shirt is yours. So it’s no wonder we resort to daft challenges in between times, and also celebrate “arbitrary” milestones in our own way….
Access:
This is NOT an easy one to get to. You can’t just drive there, you need to book a ferry or plane trip, and both of those are subject to the vagaries of the weather. I booked a ferry trip from Doolin, which is a 4 1/2 drive from me, but wisely decided to go down the night before. I stayed in a BnB in Ballyvaughan, a charming village about 20 miles north, and on the Saturday morning I took the glorious coastal road round to Doolin. If you are going to stay a few days (and you’d be well advised to!) then Doolin is colourful and has some lively pubs and aran sweater shops. But it’s also a popular tourist destination, so expect availability and prices to reflect this.
If you are in Ballyvaughan, then Monks seafood restaurant comes highly recommended, but you do need to book in advance.
The outward ferry left at 9, and with a short stop to drop passengers off at Inis Oirr (small island) arrived at 9.45. The views from the ferry are nothing short of breathtaking, with the Cliffs of Moher standing resplendent to the east, and the magnificent Twelve Bens behind the sparkling waters of Galway Bay.
Once off the ferry, it’s a good 2km stroll up to where the parkrun starts.
Facilities:
There are loos at the community hall en route, and at the school hall where the briefing takes place. When I visited there were water bottles and muffins afterwards, but there is also a pub which does a selection of toasties and pizzas, as well as a shop/ cafe that has some small snacks.
To pass the rest of your time on the island while waiting for the return ferry at 4.15, you could visit a few viewpoints, enjoy the sense of calm, maybe go for a swim.
Course:
2 laps on tarmac on roads, where there SHOULD be no cars! It’s a tough hilly start, followed by a flattish section, followed by a downhill section, another flat, and repeat. Cheery marshals at each corner, and even some support from locals.
Time:
I’m still adopting a “walk the ups, run the downs” approach, plus I was stopping to take photos, so a 46-46 was fine by me. I’m pretty sure what position token I got, though the official results say 66.
Crowd:
I have to admit, I was expecting more of a “party bus” atmosphere at the port and on the ferry. Everyone seemed quite subdued, and I didn’t even see any group photos being taken. I was delighted to meet (again) Monica – this was her completing the full Irish set, a previous attempt having fallen foul of fog with her plane cancelled.
Gear:
I’d forgotten my cow cowl (but I didn’t see any others), and wore my reinforced front trousers, With Me Now top, world tourist jacket, and my Jog Lisburn hat, which turned out to be my MVP. It also held a 250 (runs) and a 100 (volunteer) badge, which together celebrated the 350.
Strangely Appropriate Song on Shuffle:
I’d been listening to RTE Lyric on the way down, and smiled/cried at Liam Neeson’s rendition of Van the Man’s “Coney Island” – wouldn’t it be great if it was like this all the time?
And the rest:
Those other daft challenges I mentioned? Well, one of them is “Old Macdonald”, for completing parkruns beginning with E,I,E,I,O. So this was my second I, so completing that badge!
“ there’s a million things I haven’t done, but just you wait”
So sings Alexander Hamilton in the eponymous hit show.
As I prepared for my stint as Summer School Depute Director (or Deputy Dawg), I was very cognisant of the fact that I was about to do an awful lot of things that I’d never done before, so I was understandably apprehensive. And I asked myself, why on earth I’d wanted to do this?
I’d noticed that I was clenching my jaw, as I pondered how I could manage to pull off MCing in the Younger Hall, 200 eager faces looking up at me, and the renowned Jim Lindsay Band beside me. Could I put together a spectacular dem team, make sure the exams ran smoothly, and keep an eye on the young folk attending in week 3? And could I also juggle teaching a Saturday morning class, MCing the ceilidh, as well as assisting in the ambitious centenary events being planned? The depute’s “brief” is anything but!
So here we go with Deputy Dawg’s Blog
Day 1– Saturday
I was doing weeks 3 and 4 along with Director Sue. I’d asked if I could arrive on the Saturday before my fortnight started, to ensure I got there in time, and to get a decent handover with the previous team (directors and deputes do 2 weeks each.)
My first “million things I haven’t done” (MTIHD) was actually to drive to St Andrews-previously I’d flown, train, bussed, but it would be very useful to have transport to get round all the halls being used, or indeed, ferry someone to hospital.
My parkrun mascot, Cracker, came with me, though I would be missing 3 Saturday parkruns on the trot. On the ferry, I was directed into the bowels of the ship, deck 1, right at the front, pointing forward. So not only would I have to reverse to get out, I’d also have to go back up that scary steep ramp, my sensors beeping as I pressed the accelerator. And yes, I was last off the boat.
The journey up was pleasant and uneventful (I like that in a journey), with a toilet stop in Ayr, and a stretch of the legs once I got north of Glasgow. The sat nav took me easily to university hall, where I was delighted to find I had an en suite room for the fortnight. This was a real game changer for me, I find the shared facilities an awkwardness I could do without.
Over dinner it was a lot of saying Hi to old friends, who would sadly be leaving tomorrow. I watched the dancing from the balcony in the Younger Hall. As I wasn’t technically an attendee yet, I couldn’t join the dancing, but I was envious of all the space they had to dance, my 2 weeks had much bigger numbers, and space on that famous sprung floor would be at a premium.
Day 2 Sunday
9 am start. Handover with previous depute, who took me through the intricacies of the noticeboard, which would be the bane of my life, with its fiddly key and out-of-arms-reach height.
I sorted the name badges into alphabetical order and got ready for this week’s arrivals. Although registration wasn’t officially till 4, some attendees arrived before this, especially those coming from far away. At the front door I met a charming Japanese couple, who spoke absolutely no English. I tried to explain to them that they could leave their luggage here and come back later to register. Google translate on the phone is a godsend!
Some attendees had volunteered to help with registration, so I briefed them while we started dishing out badges.
Staff meeting at 5 with director Sue highlighting the week’s events.
Junior summer camp was on this week, so we said hi to the young ‘uns. Then a First timers briefing, introducing them to their teacher and answering any questions.
The traditional drinks reception was at 8.15, including a welcome speech from Sue. No photography as we have under 18s this week, and no alcohol to be left in the party room.
Next on my MTIHD was to call the dances in the common room, accompanied by Alan Ross. It was a lot of fun, and I soon relaxed into it. Alan was very calm, and played some fantastic tunes that had the crowd demanding more.
Tidied up, closed windows.
Drinks in directors study for the musicians Frank and Alan. The depute’s job is to replenish the ice, slice lemons, help serve drinks and hand round nibbles. I was trying desperately to remember a joke I’d heard, but, in best Morecambe and wise style, I was using all the right words, but not necessarily in the right order.
Day 3 Monday
Remembered that joke for Frank! (See footnotes, but don’t get overexcited) But it’s not a suitable one for the ceilidh.
I stationed myself with a coffee in the crush hall, aiming to ensure that first timers found their teacher or knew where they were going, and trying to deal with people already asking to change classes.
We packed some bags with teas, coffees etc for all the halls, before doing our rounds. Shock horror, there was No Coffee in Town hall! We got sorted with the janitor who will do it for the rest of the fortnight, so taking any pressure off us.
I was paying particular attention to the dancers in the High impact classes to identify dem team possibilities.
After lunch, we had a meeting with teachers to sort out class moves (all sorts of reasons given from the students!)
Some of the unit 3 candidates hadn’t submitted their photos, so I went to their classes and took the necessary headshots.
After evening dinner, we went to the town hall, where I continued my search for the dem team. I think I have 4 women ok but need a man number 4. I really want 4 of each for this week’s dem, because of how the opening placing will look. It doesn’t help when people don’t wear their name badges, cos I don’t know everyone’s names. And the men’s habit of wearing their badge on their belt makes it very awkward to try to read it.
Day 4 Tuesday
Waited in the foyer to pass on a few messages incl no videoing, as someone had ignored the instruction and posted something on Facebook already!
More requests to move class kept coming in.
Topped up supplies in guide hall, joined in with beginners to make up set.
Into the office for some admin, people still want to move class, or come up with solutions for noisy hand dryers. The junior summer camp presented us with some hand decorated plaques and door hangers.
We reckon Julie Walters and Dame Judi Dench will play us in the movie version of this fortnight.
At the Dem team first rehearsal, we revised Domino 5, and then put it into an overlapping set. It went really well! What a great bunch they are, full of enthusiasm and diligence. May be a MTIHD but it’s a delight to be working with some of the best dancers in the world.
Wrote up dem intro that the MC will read out on Thursday night, but cannot work out how to email it.
I managed to drive all-round the wee streets of St Andrews! And only had to three-point turn once! (You can’t drive through the arch going out of town).
Evening dance in the Younger hall, for this week’s centenary event, a live link up with TAC in Halifax. After quite a few anxious minutes trying to work out if we could both see and hear each other, and a £100 phone bill as Sue phoned her counterpart across the pond, we were off. We tried dancing the slosh and the can-can, just to make sure they were actually seeing us, and cheered when they copied what we were doing. What an amazing experience, I cried with joy at the bouncing floor, the stellar music, watching folk on the other side of the world do the same dances, sheer magic.
Day 5 Wednesday
Worked out how to use the complicated laundry room.
We took a Good Hard Look at the advanced class, to assess the folk who wanted moved up, and decide where the most suitable place for them was.
I walked back via the other halls, and joined in with the beginners again.
As part of Exam prep, got a list of the candidates.
Dem team rehearsal, cleaning the phrasing and starting to practice how we would walk on and off.
Didn’t sleep well, anxious about the dem. Was I taking too much of a risk with Domino 5?
Day 6 Thursday
People badly parked on the entrance road, took a note of their number plates on my rounds to try to identify the culprits.
Younger Hall, it’s a new class after the half way switch, and they don’t know how the coffee works.
Dem team practice in situ, I used blue tak dots to help identify the opening spots for each dancer, and let the team line up with floor-boards, windows, lights etc. before removing the blue tak.
I videoed their rehearsal, which was a useful way for us all to review and critique their performance.
Changed into tartan frock, and drove down with the till and the sashes.
Laid out sash and pins, and then discovered that none of them knew how to sash!
So I was furiously pinning up to the last minute, hoping that they would all look the same.
I took the team photo at the front door before they danced, though we will do the traditional staircase one as well.
I was so anxious, I think I held my breath throughout their performance. But they were brilliant, and I received lots of positive comments afterwards.
It was a quiet morning, we kept asking ourselves, should I be doing something!
Got strawberry tarts for examiners, and a charity shop glass to be mine with an identifying tartan ribbon.
Returned the dresses and sashes to the office, so they can be washed for next week.
Lunch was set out for the examiners in the directors study.
The exams ran smoothly, and I changed into one of my many frocks for the garden party, where I was in charge of pouring prosecco. Outside, the photographer was filming Dashing White Sergeant, with a drone. I can’t wait to see the end result of that one!
Cleared party room, and checked the layout of chairs for the ceilidh.
Day 8 Saturday
Checked party room, before a quick round of the classes, delivering missing shoes, laptops, etc.
One of the Candidate’s car has broken down
Managed to get an ice-cream at Janetttas, at last!
Guided Sue through the complicated laundry process.
Checked over cribs for tonight.
Helped folk sort out travel arrangements, especially those with a long journey ahead.
I had a quick power nap after lunch, before the staff and volunteers party.
I was a bit nervous before the evening, but made a coffee, took it to my room, and spoke out loud the words I am going to say.
Drove down to the Younger Hall , and put up the wall programmes. Deep breaths, I told myself, fake it till you make it. The Jim Lindsay band is so professional, they were a delight to be on stage with.
After the first few dances were called OK, I relaxed and started to enjoy myself. I made a few slip ups, but nothing major.
We finished bang on 11 as required, and I enjoyed a much needed GnT on my return.
Day 9 Sunday
I woke early, still buzzing after last night.
Tidied the party room, and started prepping name badges for the next intake.
Trying to work out how many sign up sheets I’ll need this week, with 2 candidate classes running, and volunteers required for their Unit 3.
Class lists pinned up, using someone tall for height.
Sweepstake on when the first class move request comes in (10 to 4). To be fair, it was from a husband and wife in different classes.
Staff meeting at 5, First timers briefing at 8, welcome drink 8-15, calling dances in the common room with Scott Band. This week’s attendees are all very competent dancers, and we had great fun!
Day 10Monday
Bracing myself for a raft of requests from dancers, teachers, examiners.
I’m worried that this week’s dem won’t have the wow factor of last weeks.
Not too much chaos at the front door, despite that high percentage of first timers.
Did the milk rounds, and looked at the 2 high impact classes, where there is plenty of choice for the dem team.
In the afternoon, this is the only time I have free before the garden party so I hit the charity shops for a fascinator. Every shop was full of dancers on the same mission.
In the Younger Hall I put up the wall programmes, and then spent the first half on the balcony, identifying my final team. Then I set off to ask them:
3 women said yes, one had to think about it.
3 men said yes, and 3 said no! One was booked on a boat trip, and he would rather see puffins than be on my dem team. Honestly! The next looked at me with terror in his eyes, and I quickly reassured him he could say no! And the third one had a sore foot.
Day 11 Tuesday
I didn’t sleep well.
I was up at 5 doing exam timetables, then a load of laundry,
Over breakfast, we learned that one exam candidate tested positive. I took her breakfast on a tray, and left it outside the door.
But my 4th woman said yes!
Met sore-foot guy in corridor, he agreed to be on the team!
Exam scheduling is a busy period, with candidates needing lesson plans printed and photocopied.
I was just feeling smug about having sorted my dem team, when the first man I’d asked called in wearing a mask to say he’s not feeling well. I sent him off with a covid test and my email address to keep in touch, as his US phone was being temperamental. Asked one of the fully certificated class to be his replacement, and started looking at 3c dances in case I need to re-do the dem programme.
Day 12 Wednesday
Man number 4 came into the office with a sore shoulder. I don’t really want to ask a member of staff to stand in, though that’s my absolute fallback, but……..
Puffin guy, your moment has come, you’re on the team!
More people testing positive with covid – I drew up a short protocol “what to do” that could be slipped under their door.
Early dem team rehearsal to allow for this week’s centenary event, afternoon tea from the university in Lower College Hall. This was a very swish do, attended by a veritable “who’s who” of RSCDS history, with lots of photographs being taken, and Ian providing some tunes on the fiddle.
Day 13 Thursday
7-30 am call from Sue- I need to take the advanced class as their teacher has covid.
My class musician was Luke Brady, who was a delight to work with. I got a bit confused teaching shehallions, which was made more difficult as I didn’t have an even number of dancers to make up square sets. But after a much needed coffee break we cracked it.
Someone approached me to ask for advice about their branch problems – really? Right here, right now?
There were complaints about the acoustics, I’m not loud enough, why doesn’t the society invest in some microphones.
Over coffee, we learned that another teacher had collapsed and had to be taken to A&E. So we are now 2 teachers short. Having considered all the options we decided to combine both high impact classes, and cancel the afternoon Highland classes
Dem team rehearsal in Younger Hall, they are so keen to make it look wonderful, and just a delight to work with.
I went over lesson plans for the rest of the week. I should’ve done the lesson I’d planned for Saturday, rather than trying to follow someone else’s plans.
Had a look at the ceilidh items, and planning the best running order.
Another candidate tested positive.
I’m feeling very under pressure, but trying to remain calm and diplomatic.
The dem team were all down in the hall in good time, so we got sashes sorted, and they warmed up in the foyer doing the Macarena.
They danced their routine beautifully, christened me their fairy godmother, and gave me a lovely wee card.
Directors study drinks – these constant late nights are getting to me, I’m usually in my bed by 11!
Day 14 Friday
6-30 call from Sue, she’s tested positive. So now we are 2 teachers and a director short.
The exams MUST take priority, the candidates have put so much time, money, effort and energy into getting to this point, I can’t let them down. I re-allocated the exam volunteer supervision duties, including taking people out of the fully cert class to be the required responsible adults. I took the Advanced class in the Old Dining hall from where additional volunteers could easily be plucked. The lesson went much better than yesterday’s, as I’d had more time to prepare. I made sure the examiners were happy and had all the paperwork they needed, and checked that their lunchroom was cleared quickly as they would need that space after the exams concluded.
More attendees testing positive.
I am so touched by how everyone comes to me and says “ how can I help”, and they genuinely mean it, and readily accept whatever task they are given. Some helped to serve drinks and pass round nibbles at the Volunteer thank you party, while someone else tidied up the chequered court where exam volunteers had been having coffee. Others offered hugs, tablet, a listening ear.
Director Jim was around as he’d been examining, and he offered to take my class on Saturday, which really takes off a good bit of pressure. If you are teaching a class, you are non-contactable/ usable for 4 hours.
I had a bit of fun MC-ing the Ceilidh, and people actually laughed at my jokes! We finished in good time, did a couple of ceilidh dances, and I got to bed at 10-30.
Day 15 Saturday
“One day more!”, we are all singing.
I started the clear down, making up a to- do list and then cheerfully ticking off each item.
Some final paperwork from the examiners.
The Garden party was being hosted by the University, and we decided to set it up indoors as rain was forecast.
The little cardboard afternoon tea boxes looked very cute, but they were a bit awkward to manage.
The celebration cake was cut by the youngest attendee, along with the person with the longest attendance record.
I did some packing, before changing into my tartan frock and heading down to the Sports Hall to MC the last dance.
Jim MCed the second half so I could actually do some dancing! Working alongside Luke and his band was an enormous privilege, and was tremendous fun.
It was a nice big hall, we had blue balloons of the number 100, that people enjoyed photographing themselves in.
I’d cleared down the director’s study, so I was grateful when someone offered to host the post-match drinks. I told everyone to get their requests in for next year’s programmes, which I will be devising.
Day 16 Sunday
There were lots of goodbye hugs in the crush hall.
Suggestions received re name badges, speed of recaps, give more info about covid cases, mikes for teachers……
I tidied the party room, took down the posters in Chequered Court, and found homes for the unclaimed raffle prizes.
I set off about 11, and my Sat nav took me a different way from that I’d come, more than 2 weeks ago, but I got to drive across the new Forth Bridge, which as a bridge afficionado was a real thrill.
Arrived at ferry terminal in plenty of time for my 7.30 sailing, But there were technical issues with the ferry, which eventually didn’t leave until after midnight!
After I got home, people kept asking me
Did I enjoy it?
I don’t think “enjoy” is the right word. It’s not that I DIDNT enjoy it, but it was….
…..exhilarating, challenging, rewarding, satisfying, and exhausting. Surprising. A privilege. Relentless.
Could YOU survive on gin, tablet, and 3 hours sleep?
Then you too can be summer school depute director!
Note: joke for Frank. A priest, a vicar and a rabbit go to a clinic to donate blood. The nurse asks the rabbit- and what blood type are you? And the rabbit says -I think I’m a type O.
PS, I get to do it all again next year. And I can’t wait!
Reason for visit: one of those pesky Wilson Index numbers! Oh, and apparently completed my Snakes challenge, (10 beginning with S) which I didn’t realise till afterwards! So that was nice.
Access:
I won’t lie, this was stressful. The campus itself isn’t completely well direction marked, there are some signs for NSC, more for the National Aquatic Centre, but in the torrential rain, and negotiating roadworks, and Dublin traffic, I was relieved to be onsite at 9.00. Then the fun started. The webpage says it starts near Abbotstown House. But there were no signs for that! It also said car parking at the Special Olympics offices. Again, no signs for that either. I parked up at a number of buildings that looked as if they might be the Irish Sport Headquarters, but anyone I asked (with an ever-increasing wild look in my eyes) “parkrun????” just shook their head, or had never heard of it.
At 9.36 I handbrake turned into the carpark. To save you some time and stress, the What Three Words for the car park are trio.lend.video
Course:
Dashing across to the disappearing back of the RD, I asked where the start was, and set off to try to catch the tailwalker. It’s 2 laps, mostly (wet and slippy) grass, but with a few muddy tarmac sections. It’s all marked with arrows, though I still managed to take a wrong turn, and on the 2nd lap I still hadn’t caught the tailwalker who was happily packing away the arrows. I did eventually catch her with about 800m to go, and she was most apologetic.
Gear:
Shoes first – I was in my Saucony’s, but trail shoes would be a better option here. I wore my blue trousers as they have a good zippy pocket for car keys, my parkrundancer apricot T which nobody got to see as I had my black pacamac on, PWT blue cap to keep the rain off, and cow cowl.
Crowd:
Small group today, I was the penultimate home in position 28. They were a friendly chatty bunch in a thankfully dry marquee afterwards, with some delicious home made ginger parkin buns. Yum!
I got chatting to someone about the number challenges – Wilson is probably still OK as it just involves individual runners attending this, that and the other event. But the Nelson, Fibonacci and Primes are now being discouraged, as they mean some events would be completely swamped on particular days. I can understand the logic.
Time:
I know this won’t be accurate as I took a wrong turn, but 42 ish minutes, considering I started late, was OK. First in my age category!
Strangely Appropriate Song On Shuffle:
“And I would drive one hundred miles, and I would drive one hundred home, just to get the Wilson Index number that I need upon my phone……….”
I didn’t have time to put my headphones on, so the sound most of the listening wildlife would have heard was me swearing.
Environmental note: yes I do feel guilty driving long distances for spurious reasons, but I try to minimise it, and car share where possible.
The gap between milestones 250 and 500 is AT LEAST 5 years, so many of us parkrunners set different challenges along the way to keep the journey interesting. One of these is the Wilson Index, where you’ve run at event numbers 1,2,3 etc. I’ve been chipping away at mine recently, thanks to the new local ones at Hillsborough Forest parkrun, Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun and parkrun tourism: Crawfordsburn Country, all of which are about the same age, approaching 100. Newer NI ones at Derrynoid Forest parkrun and Dunleath Playing Fields parkrun are useful for numbers in the 50s and 60s. But there’s always the odd one that I’ve missed out on, and I have to look further afield to grab.
I utilised the very useful Planner feature on the 5k app to try to find an event number 85 that wouldn’t require expensive flights or a weekend away. And found Achill Greenway! I’ve been to Ireland’s largest coastal island several times before, and was looking forward to a repeat visit. I found a wee BnB not too far away, and checked the nearest local bar/ restaurant, which turned out to be Gielty’s, the westernmost bar in Europe.
I booked a table for Friday dinner. I checked the weather forecast and packed a selection of suitable clothes. I contacted the team and volunteered to tail-walk.
And on Thursday, their Facebook page posted something like “well, we really enjoyed event 83 last Saturday, looking forward to this weekend”
Wait, what? Last Saturday was 83? So this Saturday, my visit, would be event 84? How could I have been so careless!
*sigh* Oh well, it would at least be one closer to the 100 events Cowell, and I would enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Access:
It’s a 4 1/2 hour drive from my place, but I took my time, and stopped in Tubercurry for an iced coffee, and an impulse buy in the charity shop. The rain was lashing so I didn’t get to see very much, but it was easing off as I found my way to the Sona Baile BnB in Keel.
The parkrun starts just opposite the GAA pitches, right before the bridge onto the island. Walk about 200m down the path, and the start is where there is a stone gateway.
Course:
It’s an out and back along the greenway. Flat tarmac all the way, but quite exposed. Always windy! Lovely views, if it’s not raining. Marshalls appear from out of thin air, and then disappear again. The turning point is marked with a flag, and as tail-walker I got to carry this back to the previous marshall. “Don’t worry” he reassured me “No-one saw you carrying a Mayo flag!” I replied “Good job I wasn’t wearing my Down jersey!” Come on Down!
Crowd:
There was a half marathon on when I visited, which had depleted the usual body of runners (and volunteers – they’d nearly had to cancel!). But I came in at number 19. A few visitors, including others making their way round all of the Irish events, and a rarely spotted 500 T shirt. There were a couple of walkers, and one dog. First home was a very speedy junior – well done!
Facilities:
Parking is either at the GAA, or the hotel by the bridge, where there are also loos. I joined a few others there for breakfast afterwards, where we did the usual parkrun Top Trumps.
Strangely Appropriate Song on Shuffle:
The Greenway is also used by cyclists, so I didn’t have headphones in so’s I could listen for ding-a-ling bells. But I’d been listening to RTE Lyric in the car, and smiled at Judy Garland’s “Forget your troubles, come on get happy”
Gear:
I wore my Saucony shoes, flowery leggings, 250 T shirt (rendered invisible by my black pac-a-mac), and topped off with my Jog Lisburn bobble hat.
Time:
I’d been jog walking to keep up, so twas a respectable tail time of 47m 16s
And the rest:
Achill is very scenic, you can appreciate why so many painters and artists come here. My Friday dinner in Gielty’s was rather pleasant – the staff are very friendly, and we had a bit of a banter over the comparative merits of Northern or Southern Tayto crisps, and which Mr Tayto was more correctly proportioned. The Oscar winning “Banshees of Inisherin” was filmed near here, so there’s much cashing in on the tourism potential. A “Banshee Burger” was on the menu, but I did raise an eyebrow at the appropriateness of “Gleeson’s cod fingers”.
Instead I tucked into a hearty bowl of chowder, packed with plenty of salmon and served with a slab of wheaten bread.
I had a night cap of a local whiskey named after the pub in the movie, which was smooth with a top note of vanilla and a finish of caramel.
The Saturday morning dawned bright and clear, so after enjoying the playing light on the mountain opposite the BnB I took a quick trip over the hair-raising steep and winding road to Keem strand, a beautiful golden crescent of sand against turquoise seas.
And after the parkrun I stocked up on local souvenirs – southern Tayto, cheesy popcorn, wheaten bread, fancy artisanl cheese and heather infused Grace O’Malley gin. Took a different route home via Carrick-on-Shannon and Clones. Zig-zaggy, but sure it’s good to see roads other than motorways! I did question the sat nav a few times when there appeared to be grass growing up the middle of the “unnamed road” it was taking me along.
It was a real pleasure to stay with a fellow Jog Lisburner who has since moved to the Wirral, and has continued his parkrun journey in the closest event at (and you have to always say the name in the broadest Liverpudlian accent you can muster) Birkenhead.
Access:
There is still a boat from Belfast to Liverpool, which handily enough docks at Birkenhead. The parkrun itself takes place in gorgeous Birkenhead Park, the first ever public park. There’s not a lot of car parking near the start, so please park considerately on the side streets. What Three Words for the gate to the park is
pack stem lines
Course:
It’s a 2 lapper, all on wide tarmac footpaths. Being so wide there’s bound to be some variation in the distance recorded by your smartwatch. Keep left on the first lap to allow others to overtake, during your 2nd lap you can pick the shortest running line between curves as the crowd thins out. It’s mostly flat, though there’s a long slow incline towards the end of the circuit. The park is quite stunning, with lots of lovely old trees.
Crowd:
It’s a big one, usually around the 500 mark, so seed yourself at the start for a smooth take off. Good age range, with some buggies and doggies as well.
Gear:
Attendees had been encouraged to show their Eurovision support. Indeed, there was blue and yellow bunting at the finish for Ukraine, with some Euroviz tunes being played. I took my inspiration from last year;s winners, the Kalush Orchestra, in my pink bucket hat and embroidered waistcoat. They were quite hot for running in!
Facilities:
Coffee and toilets in the rugby club, or in the park visitor centre.
Time:
I was jog-walking, particularly in my warm outfit, so my time was 43m 18s
Strangely Appropriate Song On Shuffle:
The absolute crowd pleaser in the arena was Finland with the gloriously bonkers Cha Cha Cha
When Ukraine won in 2022, but were unable to host it, the UK, whose Sam Ryder had been runner up, took on the responsibility. The host city was declared as Liverpool, a good choice given its rich musical heritage. Having previously been able to attend the world’s greatest party in EuroViennaSlava, I was very excited to be able to attend this one.
It got off to a worrying start. The plane prices had been extortionate, so I was booked as a foot passenger on the 10.30 ferry from Belfast to Birkenhead. At 7.30 am I tried scheduling a taxi, but was unable to. At 7.45 I tried booking a cab for now, and kept getting automated messages saying “we’ve got your booking, thank you for your patience”. At 8.20 the cab company rang me to say they wouldn’t have anything for at least another 15 minutes, and did I want to cancel. The ferry had a 30 minute delay, which gave me a wee bit more time, but check in was due to close at 9.30. I grabbed my wheely suitcase and set of to speed walk to the train station a mile away, hoping to catch a fast train to Belfast and then pick up a taxi to the docks there. And as luck would have it, there is a taxi rank at the top of the hill, where a vacant cab was waiting. I explained the urgency of our mission, which the driver accepted, and we set off, both anxiously biting our nails in the slow moving rush hour traffic. But as we emerged from the Westlink at 9 o’clock, we knew we were going to make it OK. I’d had visions of me doing a Will Ferrell in Fire Saga and having to swim part of the way!
The boat was remarkably quiet. I’m familiar with the Scottish routes, which are usually packed and noisy, but when I secured a seat in the Hygge lounge I was the only person there! I broke the 8 hour journey up with reading my book, playing Scrabble online, doing a crossword, watching a movie in one of the ship’s 2 cinemas, taking a walk round the whole of the boat, enjoying a GnT from the bar while passing the Isle of Man, and discovering licorice flavoured Haribos in the shop.
As we glided onto the Birkenhead terminal, the familiar Liverpool skyline was clear on the other side of the Mersey, with a big Eurovision welcome banner, and bright lights shining from the Eurovillage stage. Former neighbours of mine, and fellow parkrunner, were to be my hosts for a few days, and they met me at the pick up point. We had a good catch up over a lovely dinner.
Thursday was semi-final day, and I had managed to get tickets for the afternoon preview show. I was dressed in tribute to last year’s winners, the Kalush Orchestra, and on the bus journey into town we played “spot the other Euroviz fans”. Liverpool had totally embraced its job as host city, with huge brightly coloured signs everywhere, lots of blue and yellow for the Ukrainian flag, pop up performances, Ukrainian songbirds, and volunteers ready to answer any question or take photos. We spotted radio star and Strictly contestant Ritchie Anderson, who was happy to pose for a picture with us, and said “loving the Kalush pink hat!”
A glass of fizz to get us in the mood by the waterfront, admiring the floating globe, and then we made our way to the queue at the arena. It didn’t take overly long to get through, with plenty of opportunity to admire the great costumes of other audience members.
And then we were in the arena. Gasps of wonder and astonishment at the sheer size of it and the amazing stage, plus pinching ourselves that were actually here! Previous Euro tunes kept the audience’s spirits up, with lots of singing along, and chatting to neighbours. A warm up man came out to go through housekeeping rules, and check that we were able to cheer loudly.
And then, the familiar Charpentier Te Deum began, with a shiver of excitement rippling throughout the hall. The presenters appeared and the dress rehearsal began. Each of the live shows has a number of full run-throughs, to allow all the camera positions to be checked, timing of bits in between songs, any interviews to be fine tuned, and other technical aspects to be tested. The stage was very shiny, with LED lights that could pin point where each artist was to be position. When one song ended, and the TV footage switched to the “postcards”, an army of stage crew appeared and cleared the stage of the previous performer’s props and staging, sweep the floor with at least 3 or 4 wide brooms, and get the next performance ready to go. It was a majorly impressive operation.
I’d already listened to all the of songs, so I knew which one was going to be my “toilet break” song. And after one particular number, (I’ll spare their blushes), I said “If that qualifies I will eat my pink bucket hat!” This semi finished with my own favourite, Australia’s Voyager fulfilling one of their own dreams. “Promise” is a proper stadium rock song with a synth-tastic 80s influence, complete with a keytar, and it proved to be a fittingly rousing way to round off the show
In the preview shows the voting is also rehearsed, with stand in crew in each of the green room pods, and fake results announced. We decided we would avoid the crowds and leave before these were complete, and on exiting the arena we were given a Moroccan Oil tote bag in fetching teal and white, containing a miniature hand cream and hair treatment. They are the main contest sponsors, and the bag will be a very useful beach bag.
Heading to the Eurovillage, there was quite a queue to get in, and as we entered the rain started, and there is nowhere to shelter. I was disappointed by the village – I know it had lots of great live performances throughout the week, but I’d expected more stalls from the participating countries, not just bars and burger vans. We took shelter in Mowgli, a great Indian street food restaurant, before making our way home in time to watch the semi live on TV.
On the Friday we took a break from Euroviz and headed to Chester for a lovely stroll around the walls, through the gardens, before lunch at the new Chester market (highly recommended) and a drink in a sunny beer garden. It was great to hear the Mersey Rail announcements being made by Graham Norton.
Saturday morning is parkrun, and I was delighted to tick off another event in the gorgeous Birkenhead Park. They had a suitable Eurovision them, with blue and yellow bunting at the finish line, and costumes/ blue’n’yellow encouraged. I gave the Kalush outfit another go to dry it out after Thursday’s drenching, but it was quite warm running in a hat and waistcoat.
For the evening Final, I’d brought several possible outfits with me, but eventually chose an all over sparkly sequinned top. We were watching a live screening at the Everyman Theatre, and the buzz walking through the city centre was incredible. A welcome glass of prosecco greeted us, before we took our seats for some pre-show entertainment, emceed by a drag queen. When she found out I’d been to the same ballet school as Dana, she dragged me onstage for an impromptu duet. (“Do you wanna see me dance?”) Other audience members performed karaoke of some Euroviz classics, and did rather well, I thought!
The class of 23 included some typically bonkers entries, the most outstanding of which was Cha Cha Cha from Finland. This was a HUGE crowd pleaser – the energy in the arena with every one chanting along was electric, and a few of us took to the stage to dance along with the moves during the performance.
We’d agreed to leave after all the songs had been performed, switch off all social media, beat the crowds home and then watch the results on catch-up TV. Much as I loved Finland, I was delighted for Sweden, joining Ireland as the most successful countries, and for Loreen to be the first woman to win the contest twice. Hey, last time I was at the contest in 2015, when Mans won for Sweden – maybe I am their lucky mascot! Do you think if I contacted them they would give me a VIP pass to Stockholm next year?
The boat home on Sunday was just as calm and uncrowded, I even treated myself to the Stena Plus lounge, which has snacks and drinks available all day.
Well done Liverpool, a host city which totally embraced the madness, providing lots of activities, pop up performances and things to enjoy even for those who hadn’t got tickets. You’ll never sing alone.
Reason for visit – celebrating the centenary of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society! The www.https://rscds.org is headquartered in Edinburgh, and was holding a fabulous Ball in the Assembly Rooms.
Access:
My journey to the city was, as usual, fraught with difficulties. I’d originally booked with FlyBe, about 2 days before they went into administration. So I rebooked with Easyjet going out, and Ryanair coming back. And then Ryanair cancelled THAT flight. So, feeling a bit guilty about my carbon footprint, I booked myself onto the rail-and-sail option. Except there were road closures just north of Cairnryan, and the long diversion meant that my bus was just pulling up to the ferry terminal as the boat was setting off. Note to travellers, there is NOTHING to see or do at Cairnryan, so make sure you have a book or magazine, and a handy snack, just in case.
I was staying at the Premier Hub just behind Waverley Station, which was a good central location. I did take a taxi to the parkrun to make sure I got to the right place on time (not always an infallible plan, see parkrun tourism: Beeston). And I got to Figgate Park in plenty of time to have a wander and try to take some photos, though my phone camera was playing up. Remember that Scottish parkruns start at 9-30! It was simple enough to find a bus to take me back to the city afterwards.
Course:
The course is all on tarmac paths, 3 laps of the rather linear shaped park around the lake and burn. No hills to speak of. Volunteers hold up expected finish times at the start line, so that some self seeding takes place as it is quite narrow.
Crowd:
There were 2 other cow cowl wearers, so we had fun comparing stories and adventures. The RD for the day was originally from Belfast – bout ye! A couple of buggies and dogs weaved their way through the youngish crowd.
Time:
I didn’t have headphones with me, so I was using a rough guide to “walk a minute, run a minute” by counting to 60 (for the runny bits) and to 30 (for walking), in English, French, Spanish and German. And I skip-changed over the finish line at just over 47 minutes.
Gear:
It was a dreich morning, so my MVP was my world tourist rainproof jacket, a lovely turquoise layer that handily folds into its own pocket and clips around the waist. It also provides a good talking point. I was very glad I had gloves and a headband, and my winter trousers which have an extra bit at the front of the thighs for warmth. I wore my Saucony trainers – road shoes for this one.
Facilities:
There are NO loos in the park, so make sure you go before you leave. The nearest cafes are on the charming promenade, where I tucked into a haggis roll and an Irish cream latte from the Crumbs kiosk. The beach stretches as far as the eye can see, with dogs cavorting up and down, living their best life.
And the rest:
The whole weekend was rather splendid, travel woes aside. It did mean I could carry home my limited edition centenary bottle of scotch. And my feet have just about recovered from 2 evenings of dancing to some fabulous live music, with friends from all over the world.
I’d originally hoped to do Wollaton Hall, being walking distance from the hotel where I was staying on the Nottingham University campus. But it was cancelled this week (tourist tip – check the volunteer roster in advance), and Beeston was the next closest.
Access:
My journey had been fraught with difficulties. I’d booked flights to East Midlands with Fly Be, 2 days before they went into administration. So rebooked with Easyjet going via Birmingham, which is a good couple of hours away by in. I asked the hotel to book me a taxi, and watched them write “Weir Fields Playing Grounds” on a post it note, But when I got out where the taxi stopped and looked around I could tell I wasn’t in the right spot. The sign said “Beeston Playing Fields”, which was a very small pitch with little signs of life. I checked google maps which told me the location I wanted was a mile and a half away, estimating a 49 minute walk. And it was already 8.20! I could have cried. But instead I jog-walked in the direction I needed, hoping that at least I could play “catch the tail walker”. As 9 o clock loomed I could see a few other runners, and finally the welcome sight of a marshall, and I managed to join the throng just before the start whistle went.
What Three Words – Quick Flood Fits is the bridge crossing the canal to the car park.
The train station is a bit closer than the tram stop, but both are still a good distance away. The parkrun page gives details of other buses nearby.
Course:
Today we ran the alternative course, starting at the pavilion, along the canal and round in a big loop, before a final out and back and a little circuit on grass. The terrain was quite muddy, trail shoes might be an option particularly if it has been raining. No hills to speak of.
Crowd:
There were 300 ish that day – some were surprised it wasn’t more given that there were 2 cancellations of other local events. I fell in with a great bunch of women who scooped me up doing “walk a minute run a minute”, and we chatted our way around, discussing dogs, dancing and touring. I even made the run report!
I saw a couple of other cow buffs, but didn’t get a chance to say hi. There were a few runners with dogs and buggies.
Gear:
I wore my leggings with pockets (good for holding hotel key), With Me Now top, and cow cowl. Cracker, my squirrel mascot, came attached to my running belt. Blue hokkas – since I would have to wear them on the plane tomorrow I was trying NOT to get them too wet or dirty….
Time:
The “jeffing” approach of walk-run resulted in a time of 45 minutes, which I was happy enough with.
Strangely Appropriate Song on Shuffle:
I had an earworm of Angelica singing “I came all this way!” from Hamilton as I made my way to the start. I had my bone conductor headphones with me, and was having a first listen through the songs for this year’s Eurovision. I always try to do this initial hearing without knowing which country they are from. So expect the usual madness with unicorns, watergun, Mama driving a tractor (?), something VERY French (tout le monde, mon sac a main), and a jaunty saxophone. Oh, and Edgar Allen Poe.
Facilities:
The car park gets very busy, particularly if there are other activities taking place.
There’s a toilet block by the pavilion.
And a very cute cafe serving crumpets, toast with marmite, bacon butties and a tempting selection of cakes. I couldn’t resist the cheese scones, just out of the oven.
And the rest:
Well Jemima was just brilliant, I was delighted I could be there from the premiere. I managed to get dancing with Nottingham RSCDS on the Saturday night, and J took me for Mothers Day brunch at Browns on the Sunday morning. Just the perfect weekend!
One of the nicest reasons to indulge in a bit of tourism – visiting my first grandchild!
Getting There:
Salisbury itself is not the easiest city to get to from Norn Irn. Bristol airport is a good hour and a half away, with trains about once an hour. Southampton airport is a bit closer, but much more expensive. We stayed in the Qudos hotel in the centre, about 20 minutes walk or 5 minutes by car.
The postcode given on the parkrun site is for the building opposite the park, so be prepared to ignore your sat nav once you can see the car park at Churchill Gardens. There’s a good amount of parking (though I wonder what next week’s event no 333 Nelson number will attract!), but a very narrow height barrier to get through.
Facilities:
There’s a toilet block by the car park. A coffee cart used to be available, maybe it will be there in the summer months. Lots of play areas for family and spectators to amuse themselves.
Course:
On the plus side, it’s pretty flat, and good tarmac all the way. On the minus side it’s a spur to the perimeter and then FOUR laps. So keep counting. It is also quite close to running water, and can be prone to flooding, so do check for the latest updates.
Volunteers:
Great friendly bunch of volunteers! The tailwalkers were wearing dinosaur tails, and one marshall had a selection of running music to keep us all motivated.
Gear:
I was in my new leggings wot have pocketses, so I carried my phone in there, and listened to the latest “With Me Now” podcast on my bone conductor headphones. I wore my WMN top and cow cowl, but didn’t see any other obvious tourists. I wasn’t wearing a smart watch, so I wasn’t keeping an eye on my time.
Time:
I’m still not managing to get to training sessions, so this is the only running I do, and a time of 41-49 was what I was expecting. Hey, I could well be back in the future, so always leave yourself the chance to get a PB on a repeat visit!
Strangely Appropriate Song on Shuffle:
I am now a fan of listening to podcasts while I run, as it can really take your mind off the pain of running. WMN is of course a great soundtrack, but I’ve also been enjoying Dr Xand’s investigation into ultra processed foods (UPFs).
Post run:
We enjoyed a fabulous full fry at Carwardrine’s cafe in town. Great friendly service, highly recommended.
And the rest:
It’s a beautiful part of the world to spend a few days.
Thatched roofs decorated with animals, and I managed to achieve a bucket list item of seeing Stonehenge. Salisbury cathedral is definitely worth a visit too, highest spire in GB, for useful quiz knowledge!
Dancing At Lunacy 