Great South Run 2018

This was to be my first ever ‘just’ 10 mile race and I was really looking forward to getting my teeth into it. Cutting off the last 5km of the half-marathon distance I’ve already done quite a few times this year but longer and therefore more epic than a 10km race. Overall, something different – and a completely flat course too! 

I made the journey south with some friends, so the race was squashed into a lovely weekend which gave the opportunity for a bit of Parkrun tourism with a tricky yet enjoyable route in the New Forest on the Saturday morning and then some general tourism in the afternoon through to the evening. Despite getting to bed at a reasonable time, that 6am Sunday alarm felt evil as I forced some porridge down and we headed, bleary eyed, to the train station. 

After a bit of panic at the hands of National Rail, we made it over to Portsmouth and it seemed no time at all until we split up and headed over to our respective starting areas. Although it was nearing the end of October, the sun shone brightly along the promenade and I made a last minute decision to ditch my under layer – I’m so glad I did! By the time I crossed the start-line the temperature had really climbed as thousands of us set off on our way under the beaming southern sunshine.

I had in my head that I wanted to do this in as close to the two hour mark as I could. So when I spotted the 2 hour pacer a little ahead not long after I’d started, I decided try and stick with them to help reach the target. However my rhythm was good and my breathing worked well so I soon passed them and decided I may as well carry on while everything was working well. 

Something particularly special about this race was that, all the way around, there was a fantastic atmosphere. From the runners to the spectators and the various bands playing on the way round, there was a really light hearted feel – and for once my feet seemed light as well as the miles ticked by with no sign of the ‘wall’ which usually comes at some point in most of my runs. 

Reaching the half way point just about on track and then the 10km mark in a decent time, I decided to have a little walk. I was shattered but not exhausted and I wanted to save some energy to get me through the last mile. A real highlight at this point was the run down a residential street – it was like one long street party! Everyone stood outside their homes, some playing music and all clapping and cheering, as I moved back into a run I really enjoyed taking it all in before turning onto the last two-mile straight across the sea front. 

The view now was absolutely magnificent – I wish I’d have stopped to take a couple of photos! The bright blue skies blending on the horizon to the sea which shimmered under the low late-autumn sun, then the promenade sprinkled with runners all coming to the end of their latest challenge, surrounded by cheering crowds. I really had to keep reminding myself to focus on looking in front to make sure I didn’t trip over any discarded water bottles – or fellow runners. 

With my music pumping in my ears and a big smile spread across my face, I was truly enjoying this run as I made my way around the last corner and sprinted towards the finish. Spirits at the end of the route were just as high as at the start with everyone congratulating each other while making our way to collect our medals. 

With an excellent backdrop for those all important medal photos, it was great to be reunited with my friends who had equally good experiences. Although I just missed my two hour target, I was pleased with my average pace and my overall time. 

I definitely intend on ticking off some more of the ‘Great Run’ series over the next couple of years. Excellently organised, good medal and t-shirt and great on-route entertainment to keep the motivation up!

 

 

Smiles all around!

 

Parkrun Tourism in our club t-shirts!