Former Olympian Dame Kelly Holmes had a few sage words of advice following a lap around Newry’s Greenway Parkrun on Saturday.
The now retired middle distance star of the track completed her final parkrun of the year in Newry while also setting her second fastest time for 2025 on the course.
Fifty-five-year-old Holmes completed the 5k “out and back” distance in just 18 minutes and 59 seconds (94:12% Age Grade).
She congratulated everyone who ran or walked the route with her on December 27, adding: “This was my 2nd fastest of the year.
Considering the start of this year it ended well. Moral of the stories never give up and always believe things will get better.”
The race marked her 103rd parkrun. She placed third out of 107 runners and, it will come as no surprise, that the 2004 Olympic double gold medal-winner was the first female to cross the line.
Later that same day, Holmes took to social media to share a personal reflection with the hopes of inspiring her followers as they head into a new calendar year.
Said Holmes: “Not one for aging but I am chuffed that I can still push myself and achieve my own personal goals.
“I am 39+16 but I want inspire you to be the best version of yourselves.
“I also want to be the best version of myself so sharing what I chuffed with.
“The year start not so good. In February I had a gynae op that took me a while to get back from.
“So instead of giving in I Parkwalked a couple! Yeah, frustrating at the time but like others showing up is what mattered!”
Demonstrating that she does indeed practice what she preaches, Holmes laid out her now aced 2025 goals: “Do 25 in 25 – I did 30.
“Break 20 mins – I broke 19mins three times. Complete the Alphabet [A parkrun “Holy Grail”]- I now only have five more for my second.
“Aim to get close to 90% Age Grade – I got 94.7% 94.12% 92.18%. Aim to finish off the year feeling good, I feel great.”
To all of her fellow Parkrunners, she said: “Thanks for all the fun. Well done to everyone who showed up, committed, run or walked.
“Some days will test you. Some days will surprise you. Some will feel heavy, others full of light. No two days are ever the same, but every single one is worth showing up for.
“Take each day as it comes, trust your strength, and remember: you’ve already survived everything that once tried to stop you.
“Keep believing. Keep wanting more. Keep moving forward. Keep living fully.
“We’re still standing. Still growing. Still moving. See you on the other side 2026 here we come.”
