Running tourism not going well

I am on holiday visiting family with our brood and was organised enough to bring my running kit. I had thought a parkrun near here could be a potential. However, I did a 5k route where we are staying and I was huffing with hayfever. They have and are harvesting at the moment. I was off pace by a couple of minutes. My route took me along the parkrun route and it was uneven grass which I really struggled running on. I usually run on tarmac or roads. What am I going to do about parkrun? I know it is flat and supposedly fast only not fast for me. I am disappointed with my running tourism so far.

[JaySeeSkinny Graduate10]

I'm never fast when I run in new places. There is too much to see and think about. The routes are new, the ground is uneven, I might get lost, etc., etc. So I just take the runs as they come and don't bother about speed or pace and they have been some of my most enjoyable runs. So if I were you I would go along to Parkrun and do it for the fun. If you don't want to mess up any statistics don't use your barcode. Running in new places for me is about exploring new areas and seeing new things.

[Hidden in reply to JaySeeSkinny]

Yes I was also trying to get my bearings and not get lost too. I wasn't fast but maybe that is to be expected as you say. I won't be aiming for a pb at parkrun but it will be a fun family affair I expect. Thank you for sharing your experiences.

[misswobble Graduate10]

Oh dear

Why the long face. On holiday and running. Win win. Make the most of it. No-one expects every run to be perfect. Take it for what it is, long grass or whatever 😃Lighten up. Running is supposed to be fun 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️✔️👍🙂

I don't get away often so when I do I am like a kid. I did the local Parkrun, and ran very early when only the dog walkers were on the beach. Never run on a beach before but can't wait to do it again

You just go with what you've got. Good practice 🙂

[Hidden in reply to misswobble]

I am doing parkrun tomorrow with the rugrats and it will be what it will be. I can see it will be slow but 5k all the same. At least the weather will be good as there are thunder storms for lunchtime!

[misswobble Graduate10]

Have fun!

[Plumesworld]

I did an unfamiliar parkrun last weekend. It is flatter than my usual course so I thought I'd do better but 20% grass and not being able to see the finish (usual course is 2 laps this was one big one) meant I was slower than expected. Oh well it's all experience!

[Hidden in reply to Plumesworld]

I shall go in with no expectations then! At least it is a 5k run regardless.

[misswobble Graduate10]

Parkrun isn't about being fast for most people,taking part. It's about getting round in whatever way one can. They are not all runners? Some can barely walk. There are elderly, less able and the injured, all of whom are going with the flow. It's great to see as everyone moves off together, with the same intention be they elite runners or tail Enders

I'm sure you'll love it.