Saturday’s run was the 477th time the occasion had been held, 308 participants and 59 first-time park runners and walkers participating; many of them wearing sparkling outfits to celebrate the milestone.
Co-organiser Tania Hollis said Saturday’s run featured at least half a dozen runners of the original 68 who participated in the very first Dunedin park run a decade ago.
"It’s just something fun to do in the morning. For me it’s as much about the camaraderie as it is about running and keeping fit."
The run has been held nearly every Saturday, and consists of a timed 5km run around the botanic garden.
Participants complete two laps of both the upper and lower gardens, starting from the garden’s Croque-o-dile cafe.
"The Dunedin Botanic Garden is such an amazing location; it changes throughout the year.
"We’ve been so lucky to have their support through the years."
The first finisher on Saturday was George Hamilton in 17min 38sec and the first female finisher was Kristy Eyles in 22min 04sec, while the tail-walker, Neville Shanks (a volunteer and the last person to finish), came in at 1hr 28min.
Hamilton also holds the record for the fastest run of 16min 42sec on July 24, 2021.
There had been several new participants every week, Ms Hollis said.
"I think the success of the run is down to the fact it caters for all ages and running types.
"You can go as fast or as slow as you want."
There were 19 volunteers assisting with Saturday’s event, and the course had remained largely the same since it began on January 11, 2014, she said.
"There are several people who have completed more than 250 park runs on their own.
"It’s such an inclusive event."
