Peacock hails Commonwealth Games impact as runners out in force at parkrun

Paralympic sprint champion Jonnie Peacock paid tribute to Heaton Park's parkrun attendees as he witnessed how National Lottery funding is helping the country get active after the success of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. Peacock, a four-time Paralympic medallist — two of them gold — joined an all-star roster of former British Olympians and Paralympians at one of 700-free events taking place across the country this morning.

Ad The Cambridge native, who triumphed in the men's 100m T44 at London 2012, believes Birmingham 2022 has created a new line-up of role models for the younger generation. AthleticsOnuora urges UK to spread multi-sport events2 HOURS AGO And as well as being in admiration of the 650 runners tackling the 5km distance in the sweltering heat, he is hopeful the weekly events provide an opportunity for anyone to get involved with sport.

New research, released by The National Lottery, shows parents feel that major sporting events like the Commonwealth Games provides key role models and inspiration for their children to be more active. «I was telling everyone at parkrun that they're doing about 100 times in distance what I would do,» Peacock said.

«So, they are all much braver than I am. »But it is just a formidable idea to get people out of the house and I think watching things like the Commonwealth Games means there's so many people at home that are going to be inspired.

«Wanting to get active, and they need somewhere local to take part. »You've got people that are just getting fit and active for the first time and others that are trying to take it to the next level." The National Lottery is encouraging people who are looking for a way to get active, to get down to their local parkrun this weekend.