On a brisk Saturday morning in Belfast, the city’s Ormeau Park was buzzing with a special kind of energy. Among the crowd of runners, one participant stood out—not for her speed, but for the sheer magnitude of her accomplishment. Grace Chambers, a 97-year-old former teacher from Belfast, became the oldest person in Europe to complete 250 Parkrun events, a milestone that left the local community and running enthusiasts across the continent in awe.
The record-setting run took place on August 16, 2025, just four weeks after Grace had undergone heart surgery. For many, the idea of returning to strenuous activity so soon after such a procedure would seem daunting, if not impossible. But for Grace, the challenge was simply another goal to strive for. As she crossed the finish line of the 5k course, the crowd erupted in applause, celebrating not just her perseverance but the spirit she brought to every stride.
“I feel glad I’ve done it as there was always a possibility that I wouldn’t but I never look negatively at things,” Grace told BBC after the event. “If I set a goal I try to achieve it and if I don’t do it the first time I try it again and again and again.” Her words, delivered with characteristic humility, resonated with runners and non-runners alike. After all, who among us hasn’t faced setbacks or doubted our own abilities? Grace’s story is a testament to the power of persistence and optimism.
Grace’s journey with Parkrun began nearly a decade ago in 2016. At the time, she was encouraged by a member of her rehabilitation team—a volunteer at Parkrun herself—to give the event a try. It was her daughter’s encouragement, however, that finally convinced her to lace up her trainers for her very first Parkrun. “I just love it, all the people you meet, it’s just wonderful,” Grace reflected. “People from all over Northern Ireland come and mix at Parkrun and you wouldn’t have had people from all the communities mixing like that when I was growing up.”
It’s hard to overstate the significance of that community spirit. Parkrun, a free, weekly, timed 5k event, has grown into a global movement since its inception in 2004. What started as a small gathering in London’s Bushy Park now draws millions of participants in parks and open spaces across the world. In Northern Ireland, the event has become a symbol of unity and inclusivity, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and generations. For Grace, this sense of belonging has been just as important as the physical benefits of running.
Her first year of Parkrun participation was nothing short of remarkable. Not only did she embrace the challenge with enthusiasm, but she also set several records for her age group. Each Saturday, she would join runners of all ages at Ormeau Park, often finishing with a smile and a story to share. Over time, she became a familiar face—an inspiration not just for older runners but for anyone who wondered whether it was too late to start something new.
“I certainly showed them!” Grace quipped after her 250th run, according to the Belfast-based coverage. It’s a line delivered with a twinkle in her eye, reflecting the playful determination that has defined her approach to life. Her achievement isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a reminder that age, while inevitable, need not be a barrier to setting—and smashing—ambitious goals.
The significance of Grace’s record is underscored by her recent health challenges. Completing a 5k run just a month after heart surgery is an extraordinary feat at any age, let alone at 97. Her resilience has drawn admiration from medical professionals, fellow runners, and the broader public. It’s not just about the physical act of running, but about the mental fortitude required to recover, to train, and to keep showing up week after week.
The story of Grace Chambers also highlights the evolving role of older adults in sports and community activities. In recent years, there’s been a growing recognition of the benefits of physical activity for people of all ages. Organizations like Parkrun have made it easier for seniors to participate, offering a welcoming environment and support for those with health concerns or mobility issues. Grace’s example shows that with the right encouragement and mindset, it’s possible to defy expectations and break new ground, no matter when you start.
Her journey has also sparked conversations about the importance of intergenerational connection. Parkrun’s inclusive ethos means that children, parents, and grandparents often run side by side. Grace, with her decades of life experience, has become a mentor and role model for younger runners. Her presence at Ormeau Park serves as a living bridge between past and present, a reminder that community is built on shared experiences and mutual support.
Of course, Grace’s accomplishment didn’t happen in isolation. She credits her family, particularly her daughter, for their unwavering support. The encouragement of friends, fellow runners, and volunteers at Parkrun has also played a crucial role. “All the people you meet, it’s just wonderful,” she said, emphasizing the joy she finds in connecting with others. In a world that often feels divided, these moments of togetherness are more precious than ever.
As news of Grace’s achievement spread, messages of congratulations poured in from across Europe. Runners who had never met her shared stories of how her determination inspired them to keep going, even on tough days. Local officials and community leaders praised her as a symbol of resilience and hope. For Belfast, a city with its own history of overcoming adversity, Grace’s story struck a particularly resonant chord.
Looking ahead, Grace shows no signs of slowing down. When asked about her future plans, she simply smiled and hinted that she might be back for more. After all, as she’s proven time and again, there’s always another goal to chase, another Saturday to look forward to, and another finish line to cross.
Grace Chambers’s 250th Parkrun isn’t just a record—it’s a celebration of life’s possibilities, no matter your age. Her story reminds us that determination, community, and a dash of good humor can carry us farther than we ever imagined. And as the sun rose over Ormeau Park that morning, it was clear that Grace’s journey had inspired not just a city, but an entire continent.
