Izzy, 14, breaks down barriers at Northallerton parkrun

The Northallerton junior parkrun community is celebrating inspirational young runner, Izzy, 14, whose determination and spirit have shone brightly since she first joined the event in May 2018.

Izzy lives with Baker-Gordon Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that results in both learning and physical disabilities.

Izzy taking on a Parkrun event (Image: PARKRUN) When she first joined junior parkrun, she managed a few hundred metres with help from her dad, completing the remainder in her buggy.

Encouraged by a chorus of high fives and cheers from volunteers and fellow runners, she returned week after week.

Over time, Izzy’s progress has been "nothing short of phenomenal," according to parkrunners in Northallerton.

Izzy in her buggy during one of the race events (Image: PARKRUN) From initially needing full support, she gradually began increasing the distance she could run on foot.

Even after the long break caused by the Covid pandemic, she bounced back stronger.

In September 2021, Izzy completed her first parkrun entirely on foot – a moment that brought tears of joy to the volunteer team.

Then, in December 2024, she achieved an even greater milestone: completing the entire 2k course independently, without a family member by her side.

Izzy completing the Parkrun (Image: PARKRUN) In total, Izzy has now clocked up 165 park runs since joining the event in 2018.

Junior parkrun has provided Izzy with much more than physical exercise.

It has given her the chance to participate equally with her siblings and build self-belief in a safe, inclusive space. 

Other young runners often stay behind after finishing their own runs just to welcome Izzy at the finish line, sometimes waiting more than ten minutes in heartfelt support.

Now approaching her 15th birthday, Izzy remains a central figure in the Northallerton junior parkrun community.

Recommended reading

• Smiley County Durham tot Finley fighting aggressive brain cancer at 14 months old
• New Lego-themed exhibition for film-lovers opens in Bishop Auckland
• North Yorkshire estate agents which has been in business nearly 100 years to close

Her journey is a powerful reminder of what inclusive sport can achieve, according to the Northallerton event.

"Junior parkrun has helped build her confidence, stamina, and joy in movement — and it continues to empower children like Izzy across the UK," said a representative of parkrun UK.

parkrun is encouraging people to donate to junior parkrun by donating here.