“Absolutely Buzzing”: Caroline Edmonds Reflects on Supernova Kelpies
Thousands of runners gathered around Helix Park and the iconic Kelpies on Friday and Saturday night to take part in the Supernova Kelpies - a popular night-time running event known for its glowing atmosphere and community spirit.
Among them on Saturday was Caroline Edmonds, who completed the illuminated course surrounded by cheering supporters, volunteers and fellow participants as well as her father Steve and friend Ashleigh.
Despite the physical challenge of the route, Edmonds described the experience as unforgettable. “It was fantastic,” she said shortly after finishing. “I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m absolutely worn out right now, but it was brilliant.”
The Supernova Run series is designed as an inclusive event rather than a competitive race, encouraging runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities to take part. With participants wearing head torches to light their way through the darkness, the route transforms into a ribbon of moving lights winding through the iconic Helix Park. For Edmonds, one moment on the course stood above the rest. “Coming around the Kelpies was the best bit. When you see them lit up as you run around, and all the lights from everyone’s torches, and you can see runners everywhere at the same time, it’s absolutely brilliant.”
The towering horse-head sculptures, illuminated against the night sky, provide a striking focal point for the event and a motivational boost for participants as they pass the halfway point of the route. “When you hit the Kelpies, you know you’re past halfway! After that, it feels like it’s all downhill from here.”
Along the course, volunteers and spectators created an encouraging atmosphere, applauding participants and offering words of support as they made their way through the event. “The atmosphere was amazing, even around the route there were people cheering you on and telling you that you could do it. All the volunteers were brilliant.” Some supporters even brought music to keep the energy high. “There was a guy with a boombox singing along - it was fantastic,” Edmonds laughed. “That’s what we needed when we were training. Someone cheering us on the whole way.”
Crossing the finish line brought a wave of excitement after weeks of preparation. “I’m absolutely buzzing. Honestly, I could go off and do it again now.”
The evening carried an even deeper significance than just completing 5k. Edmonds had taken part to raise money for Crossbasket House, a charity that provided vital support to her and her family during a difficult period.Speaking about the cause, she became emotional as she reflected on the support she received. “It feels amazing to be able to give back, I couldn’t have survived that time without Crossbasket House.”
The fundraising effort proved hugely successful. Before the event had even begun, Edmonds had already surpassed her initial target. “The last time I checked before we set off, we were just over £2,100. We’d already hit our target.”
For Edmonds, the Supernova Kelpies event was about more than completing the distance. It was a celebration of perseverance, community and gratitude - and a chance to give something back while sharing a memorable night with hundreds of others taking part.
As the excitement of the evening settled, her message was simple: “We did it.”