Vale of York athlete Henry Henderson was awarded his junior parkrun 100 wristband this Sunday by the volunteers at Brayton Academy Junior parkrun.
Now nine years old, Henry has been running junior parkrun since 2021, starting as a four-year-old as soon as Covid restrictions were lifted. Since then, he has turned up regularly on a Sunday morning with his mum, dad and younger brother to complete the 2km run.
His consistency over five years at his age is impressive in itself.
Splitting his time between the challenging hills of Temple Newsam and the flatter — although often very wet — grass circuit at Brayton Academy, Henry has quietly worked his way to 100 junior parkruns.
When asked why he keeps going back, his answer was straightforward: “My friends are there and I enjoy it. The people there are really nice.” That is exactly how junior parkrun should feel and is a real credit to the volunteers who make it happen every week.
His next target? “I am aiming for 250,” he said. At his current rate, and given how regularly he turns up, that seems entirely realistic.
Henry’s 100 wristband represents more than just a number. It reflects persistence, patience and the seemingly simple act of turning up week after week. We all know that turning up sounds simple, but in practice it rarely is. Running with friends and being part of a supportive community is what keeps Henry coming back. It is also what builds a lifelong relationship with sport.
Well done, Henry. And well done junior parkrun.
