For runners looking for a fun and flexible way to test themselves over the summer, the Run in the Park community is launching a new six-week 5K league on Zwift.
Starting on Thursday, June 4, the league offers runners of all abilities the chance to compete in a structured series while fitting their run around work, family, and time zone commitments. Read on for details!
A League for Everyone
Performance-Based Groups
The Summer Run League is split into four performance-based groups using 5K time thresholds:
- Group A: Sub-22:20
- Group B: 22:21 to 25:00
- Group C: 25:01 to 28:51
- Group D: 28:52 and above
This structure allows runners to compete against others of similar ability while still being part of one larger league. Runners who outperform their category will be promoted automatically.
Flexible Scheduling
Unlike traditional events with a single start time, each Thursday features 12 separate races, all on the Prospect Park Loop, beginning at 01:30 UTC and repeating every two hours throughout the day. Participants can choose the slot that suits them best, with all results automatically recorded through ZwiftPower.
Best Five Results Count
The league runs for six consecutive Thursdays, with each runner’s best five performances counting toward the final standings. This provides some flexibility for participants who may miss a week while maintaining a strong competitive element throughout the series.
Points are awarded within each group using an easy-to-follow system:
- 1st place – 100 points
- 2nd place – 98 points
- 3rd place – 96 points
- 4th place – 94 points
- 5th place – 92 points
- 6th and below, gradually decreasing.
- Everyone completing the run will receive points
This format rewards consistent participation while keeping the battle for podium positions meaningful.
ZwiftPower Required
To ensure accurate and reliable results, participants must be registered with ZwiftPower and have both heart rate and cadence data recorded during each run.
League standings, weekly results, and FAQs will be published on the official Run in the Park website: www.runinthepark.co.uk.
How to Join
Simply register for one of the weekly events on Zwift, ensure your ZwiftPower account is active, and complete your chosen Thursday race. Your results will be added automatically to the league standings.
Sign up at www.zwift.com/events/tag/runinthepark >
More Than Just a Race
Run in the Park has built a strong reputation within the Zwift running community for its welcoming and inclusive events. The group regularly hosts:
- Saturday 5K social runs, held every three hours from 07:15 UTC
- Tuesday progressive workouts at 18:00 UTC
- Community events suitable for runners of all levels
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, returning to running, or looking for some extra motivation through the summer months, the Run in the Park Summer 5K Run League offers a flexible and engaging way to run and race on Zwift.
- Join the Run in the Park club on Zwift: zwift.com/clubs/ritp/home
- To join the Run in the Park Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/1310215144407794
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