By Joe McCann
RUNNERS at Bangor’s Ward Park parkrun will soon be able to experience live music and DJ sets to entertain and encourage them.
A new event called ‘Bass Makes Pace’ will see various DJs play at the bandstand on Saturday mornings during the parkrun to provide entertainment and encouragement for those taking part.
Local runner and DJ Paul Carson said he came up with the idea after running past the bandstand during parkruns and soon approached Ards and North Down Council to seek permission to host some music and entertainment during the weekly parkruns.
Paul said the event, which launches this Saturday from 9am to noon, will feature himself DJ-ing, as well as DJ Boy, DJ Jay Dee and parkrun director Terry Coyne, who will be playing a selection of his favourite 80s rock tracks.
He said: “It’s designed as a free, community-focused event combining music, fitness and a bit of culture in Ward Park.
“I started running Bangor parkrun in April 2017 and since then I’ve completed parkruns across Northern Ireland, England, Ireland and even Canada.
“One thing I’ve always noticed when running past the bandstand in Ward Park is what an opportunity it presents to add something extra to the atmosphere. I’ve often thought it would be great to have motivational, energetic music playing as runners pass by, perhaps with someone on the microphone offering encouragement and support.”
Paul said it won’t just be dance music in the mix either and it will cater to a wide range of musical genres with something for everyone. He said although the upcoming event is a one-off, the production group Crux Productions are already in talks with the council to make it a more regular feature.
Paul said:, “I’ve also teamed up with Jonny at Crux Productions, and for the event we’ll be using a club- standard sound system and professional DJ equipment to ensure the best possible audio quality and experience in the park.
“While Crux Productions is a new venture in this format, it is a sister company of a well-established events and promotion business with over 30 years’ experience in DJing, entertainment, and live event production, so the event will be backed by a strong level of industry expertise.”
