Parkrun – which organises 5k runs or walks at 9am every Saturday – has launched its first run in New York at Brooklyn Bridge Park as part of a push into the US.

Officially launched on 23 August, the 5k route takes place in the shadow of the landmark bridge and takes in incredible views of Lower Manhattan, East River and the Statue of Liberty.

The UK charity is two years into an ambitious five year strategy, striving to be recognised as a world leader in its field, grow events and participation and reach out to those who may have the most to gain from regular access to free, low barrier to entry physical activity opportunities.

Parkruns are open to everyone to walk, jog, run and volunteer. Every weekend, at more than 2,600 locations around the world, more than 400,000 people take part in the events.

Euan Bowman, territory manager for North America says: “We’re thrilled to be launching this new Parkrun in New York City, which marks a really important step in our growth journey across the USA. Having doubled the number of American locations over the past three years, we’re on target to continue this trend with the aim of making Parkrun accessible to all Americans.”

Parkrun Global interim CEO, Lil Duggan, says: “This year alone Parkrun Global has launched 115 new event locations worldwide and we’re thrilled to now welcome Brooklyn Bridge.

“Parkrun’s mission is to bring people together to be social, active and outdoors in an inclusive environment; to provide access to low-barrier physical activity allowing people to walk, jog, run or volunteer at a 5k event in the heart of their local community. We can’t wait to see the people of New York discover the joy of parkrun at the Brooklyn Bridge event.”

Brooks Running is Parkrun’s presenting partner in the USA.