Ted Scobie Oval Parkrun will become 'Parkwalk' for the month of October to encourage more people to join in and have a go

Ted Scobie Oval Parkrun director, Glennis Damini, who started the event in 2020, said she wanted the community to realise that Parkrun isn't just about running, it's about feeling good too.

Mrs Damini said she first became familiar with the weekly fixture after visiting a friend in Echuca, who invited her to a nearby Parkrun where she saw people of all ages and abilities gathering and encouraging each other.

"When people hear 'Parkrun' they think 'No, I can't run'. It's not about running, it's about participating," Mrs Damini said.

"Even if you can't do the five kilometres, you can do half a kilometre. Just get out there and have a go. It's a good excuse to get out of bed."

According to Parkrun data, more than 10 per cent of those who complete the standard 5km course do so as walkers, something the organisation wants to increase.

Mrs Damini said not everyone has to be pounding the pavement though, and that many people volunteer in other areas like recording times and handing out tokens.

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"Some people even walk their dogs or push their kids in strollers," she added.

"It's not just about being physical, you don't have to do that, but it makes people feel better about themselves. It's not just good for your body, it's good for your head too."

Parkwalk will also be adopting a pink theme this month to help capture the attention and imagination of those who mightn't think the event is for them.

Mrs Damini said they were also considering selling pink cupcakes to help raise funds for the Jane McGrath foundation, as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

She also encouraged anyone who wasn't sure about the event to come along and give it a go.

"Every Saturday morning at 8 o'clock, rain, hail or shine," she said. "It doesn't cost anything, you just turn up."

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