A Devon athlete has broken the UK female record for completing the fastest Parkrun.
Innes Fitzgerald from east Devon completed the 5km (3.10m) course in 15 minutes 27 seconds.
She took part in the Exmouth Parkrun, a national event where people can run, walk or jog, on New Year’s Day.
The 19-year-old athlete, who studies sports and exercise science at the University of Exeter, said she only did one or two of the events each year.
Fitzgerald said when the event began, her competitive nature kicked in.
She said she was not aware of the record before taking part and said she was pleased with her result, saying there were “ideal conditions”.
“It was a cool morning but there was no wind and it’s very flat.”
“I was pleased with my result, and the world record will be something to look for next time.”
Fitzgerald, who grew up near Seaton, said it was “tricky” balancing training alongside her studies, however she had found a “good routine” since living in Exeter.
She said her next races will be in mid-February, and she hopes to qualify for the European Athletics Championships and Commonwealth Games in the summer.
“With them being in Birmingham and Glasgow, it makes it extra special being on home soil so hopefully, all going well, we will be in a good place next summer,” Fitzgerald added.
