Members of the Yorkshire and Humber Supporting Women and Girls in Triathlon network plan to take part in a “Stripped Back” run.
The run will take place at Skipton parkrun on 7th March.
Participants from the network will run in sports bras and shorts or underpants to highlight what organisers describe as a celebration of the strength and capability of women’s bodies.
Event organiser Frankie Horsfield, a 38-year-old freelance running coach with Raindrop Runner UK in Skipton, said the aim is to encourage more women to feel confident about getting involved in sport.
She said:
“Women often struggle to get started in sport because we don’t feel ‘ready’ to start, whether because we don’t feel fit enough or we don’t feel comfortable.
"The ‘Stripped Back’ parkrun is a reminder that we all start somewhere, and parkrun is a safe and inclusive place to begin our journey towards a more active lifestyle and celebrate our inner strength.”
Lucy Hurn, a network member based in York and a triathlon coach with Feel Fit with Lucy and York Triathlon Club, has invited others to join the group on the day.
She said:
“We’d love others to join us - this is about coming together in solidarity.
“There’s absolutely no pressure to take your top off.
"We want everyone to run in what they’re comfortable in, although no nudity please.
“If you want to join in we’d love you to wear a tutu or something bright and colourful so we can cheer you on.”
Other members of the network are also expected to attend.
Amanda Hawkes, a civil servant and member of Raindrop Runner UK and Craven Energy Triathlon Club, said:
“We’re so much more powerful when we come together and so I’m really excited to mark International Women’s Day by joining others from the Network to celebrate the strength of women.”
Organisers say men are also welcome to attend and support the event.
Frankie Horsfield added:
“We call upon men to come support and champion this initiative and be positive advocates and allies in the mission of this group.
“Bring your positivity to cheer on or better still run with our inspirational women hitting that start line.”
Those wishing to take part are asked to meet outside the Active North Yorkshire building, formerly Craven Leisure Centre, at 8.30am on Saturday morning before heading to the parkrun start line for the briefing and a group photograph at 8.45am.
Further information about the network and the event is available online.
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