Run > Race

ECCUP 10. Really anticipated that I could do well at this race. 10 miles a great distance for me, and undulating but not vertical. Set myelf a hard target of 27.45 following the fact that I've been beating my targets lately. Lovely morning, perfect running weather. Gun went and it was a bit of slow shuffle to get over the line, I should have stood further forward. Finally got going on a nice mostly downhill first mile, missed the 1st mile marker but heard someone else mention it and 8.40. I looked at my watch, 8.20 so guess from that that it took me 20 seconds or so to cross the line. Through 2 miles in 17 minutes. Quick! Started working out in my mind what time I should get to the next mile marker and was pleased to see 8.30 - 8.45 min miles average. Through half way in 42.30. Bloody hell, that would give me 1.25, but I remembered from last time that the 2nd half had the worst of the hills. I'd gradually been gaining on Peter and just after the half way mark I found myself right behind him. I slotted behind him in anonymity for a while, but knew I'd have to go past him to achieve my best time, just really didn't want to get into a race with him. Eventually plucked up the courage and went past and put in a bit of extra for half a mile or so to get away. Didn't look back after that, just in case he was breathing down my neck! Hills in second half were taking their toll and I was regretting forgetting to bring a gel or any sustenance. Just had to dig in, but I could feel I was getting weak on the climbs, though still happily fast footing it along on the downs. Up the final hill and there was the turn into the field for the finish. Still said 1.26 something on the official clock so well chuffed with that. Indeed. Thankyou very much. Overall 413/645, F96/264, F40 14/40