Run > Race

This was without doubt one one the best moments of my life after the birth of my daughters. Worryingly the weather was supposed to be very hot so I changed my race plan completely, plenty to drink before and adjustment to pace band to 3:40:00 finish. The relief when it rained just before the start was amazing, lifting my hopes that this was going to go to plan. I got a bit annoyed going into pen 4 as my number indicated I should, only to find most there were well out of their zone, lots of 6 and 7's. This hampered my start somewhat as getting past them proved hard, however later this proved to be to my advantage as I didn't go off too fast. The one thing I was surprised by was how quick the miles melted away with the crowds cheering ME all the way, (to those who told me to get my number printed on my vest, I gratefully thank you), I found myself thanking individuals along the way, which in turn started more shouting my name, so I completely forgot any pains I had. One highlight was my plan to get to 13 miles before the elite got to mile 22, which I did, so I got to see them pass on The Highway. By about mile 22 I was feeling a little tired but the spectators wouldn't let me slow down with their constant support so I just let them carry me on to the finish with their noisy cheers ringing in my ears. One good thing about running for a charity was they provided a hot shower followed by a much needed shower plus a lovely cup of tea, this was the perfect end to a perfect day. (splits to follow when I find my Garmin)
9:29 8:48 8:11 7:49 7:59 8:10 8:10 7:57 7:53 7:51 7:59 7:58 8:06 7:57 7:52 7:07 7:58 8:00 9:30 7:51 8:24 8:20 8:37 7:10 8:30 8:32 3:34