Parkrunners Podcast
Sonya Byers, OBE: Three Generations of parkrun, Volunteering and Belonging
What happens when parkrun becomes more than a Saturday morning habit and grows into a family legacy spanning three generations? In this warm and uplifting episode, Catherine is joined by Sonya Byers OBE , a parkrun trustee , dedicated volunteer and CEO of Women in Transport. Sonya’s own parkrun journey began through volunteering at junior parkrun before she finally took on her first 5K in Kraków, Poland, in temperatures of minus eight degrees — where her 70-year-old father beat her in a sprint finish. She shares how her involvement at Barking junior parkrun led to community outreach work, an ambassador role and eventually a seat on parkrun’s global board of trustees. Sonya also introduces us to her extraordinary parkrun family. Her father, now 80, has completed more than 550 parkruns and over 500 volunteer occasions. Her mother is fast approaching her 500th volunteer credit, her brother is a junior parkrun Run Director, her husband is also a Run Director, and her young daughter already has an incredible record across both adult and junior parkrun. Together, they offer a remarkable picture of parkrun as a truly multigenerational community built on participation, generosity and belonging. Catherine and Sonya also discuss: • Why volunteering builds confidence, skills and friendships • The growth and impact of junior parkrun • parkrun’s role in public health and community wellbeing • Creating welcoming and inclusive events • Safeguarding and trust within local communities • Sonya’s work supporting women across the transport sector • Why keeping parkrun simple is central to its global success This is a joyful conversation about family, service, inclusion and the lasting impact of showing up for others. Listen now to The Parkrunners Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Send us Fan Mail Thank you for tuning in. It's been great to have you here.. If you've enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our podcast. Stay connected with us on social media ( Instagram , Facebook & LinkedIn ) for updates and more inspiring parkrunners' stories. Until next time, keep running, keep smiling and keep on showing up!
