5KYW Group Celebrates Year-End With Heart-Warming Meetup, Despite Tough Conditions

When December 5K Your Way at Alice Holt Park was scheduled for the very last day of the year – a time often reserved for holiday and family celebrations – the 5KYW team wasn’t sure what to expect. On top of it being the holiday season, there were also many nasty bugs going around, from coughs and colds to the dreaded COVID. And to top it all off, the weather forecast was calling for absolutely dreadful conditions – howling winds and driving rain all weekend long.

Given all those challenges, the 5KYW organisers, Helen and the team, really weren’t expecting a big turnout. But to their delight and pleasant surprise, 11 dedicated participants showed up ready to walk, run, and support each other. The group included seasoned 5KYW veterans as well as some tentative first-timers, all eager to get involved in their own way.

The welcoming Park Run team made sure to give the 5KYW group a special shout-out before they set off, with everyone heading out into the rain – some running, some walking, and one participant even choosing to cheer on their friends from the comfort of their car.

After the physical activity was done, the group gathered under the shelter for some much-needed socialisation. The chatter was lively, covering everything from Christmas plans to treatment updates and support. But most importantly, it was filled with empathy, kindness, and plenty of laughter.

For the 5KYW organisers, this was easily one of the best meetups of the year. Despite the challenges, the group embodied everything that 5KYW stands for – inclusive participation, unwavering community support, and the joy of simply being together. It was the perfect way to close out the year on a high note.