I haven't done a 10K since the Women's Running 10K in Liverpool in July 2014 - As I was 34 weeks pregnant at that one, a 59 Min time was one I was fairly sure I would beat. Prior to that the Women's running 10K in Nottingham was my PB time of 40.30 finishing behind the lovely Nikki Bartlet.
After the foot op in January - Race permission was granted from May 1st. I wanted under 40mins - no hiding it. I would be very disappointed if I didn't. Quite a lot to ask after not really being fully back to speed with my training but I was willing to give it a go.
About ten minutes before the start I jumped over the barrier (I missed the request not to) and took up my spot - it wasn't crowded in our pen but I was a little concerned that I may get mown down from the people in the wave just behind! Felt a little bit out of my depth actually with all the girls in their cropped tops and undies.
My plan was run comfortably, not too fast at the start and strong in the last 3K. Also my main plan was under 40 but I kept that a little quiet.
I set off quickly - I wanted to, making sure I had space and running at a comfortable pace and trying to concentrate on good running form. I don't run on roads and off road form is often all over the place - arms flailing and wobbling over rough ground, so it was actually good to be able to think a little about this.
The first 2K passed very easily and I settled into my pace. I looked at my watch every now and then just to check I was under 4 min per k. What is different about road running is there is no chatting! On the fells even running hard you chat. I was pleased no one did talk to me as I wouldn't have responded. The crowds were amazing and the encouragement and the atmosphere from the bands on the course was super. Reminiscent for me of the Great North Run when I was 18.
For me reaching the half way point of any race is a real pleasure. It's all homeward from now. My breathing was amazing and finally having my asthma under control has made a phenomenal difference to me. I have no problem being out of breath when I am running, it is what you expect when working hard but not getting a full breath in or feeling restricted in your air intake is very different. the difference in how my breathing is now when I am racing compared to how it was from June 2015 is incredible. I used to cough constantly and clear my throat all the time when racing and now I do not need to. Massive thanks to Dr R for fixing all of this.
I knew that I was on target for under 40 going through 5 K at 19.29 and then 8K at 31.44.
I knew I had to work hard in the last 2K to stay on track and maintain my focus. I knew I wasn't going to let it slip away. Running felt comfortable, nothing hurt and I was enjoying a road race!
As the 9K marker approached the 40 min pacer came alongside me and made me realise I had to crack on and keep at it!
I could see the finish barrier and the clock which said 39.30 when it came into view so I knew I would make it. I was really chuffed to cross the line in 39.46 and straight away Jo shouted well done from the side and came to meet me.
We then of course had a Starbucks and a good catch up with Lydia and the 9Bar superseed crew who were out handing out buckets and buckets of bars to hungry runners.
Cracking day. Lovely to run without any problems and really enjoy the event.
I ran comfortably and didn't kill myself so def a time I can improve on.
13th Woman
1st Female (35-39)
Gotta be happy with that.
