Date: 11 Jun 2006 08:15:35
From:
Subject: Aldridge 10K - Hilly , Hot as Hades!!
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Well it was certainly hot out there as a really big field took to the
start of the Aldridge 10K - Aldridge is on a plateau really so an
initial flat section soon began to ascend the many hills at about 2 K.
Already the heat off the tarmac was exceptional and the fast pace began
to hit home as I was desperate to try and get as close to my PB as I
could. I have run the course regularly but the hills defeated me
running alone. Long open downhill stretches followed promising a rest
for the legs but the heat again was taking its toll. There were two
water stations which was good , the first at just before a long 2K
climb up a hill that had a false crest - just when a steep bit levels
off another hoves into view. Again as I know the course I was ready but
my preparations seemed to work against me ""psyching"" me out about
what was to come. A long downhill where my legs started to feel very
heavy - a much needed water station helped here - started possibly the
toughest challenge on the course , a 3K series of hills getting steeper
and steeper toward the finish area, as each hill levelled out an
another began the incline was full into the sun and the heat was
incredible . The finishing area was around the beautiful grassy fields
of the local cricket / hockey club which is the HQ for the local
running club which organised this fine race.
Finished with heavy legs and absolutely nothing else in the bag I came
across the line in 47:52 a mere 7 seconds short of my PB time , 7
bloody seconds!! they just weren't there no matter how deep I dug into
the bag. Still its a hilly hellishly hot course so I'm not upset about
my time. The goody bag was the best I've ever had - Fruit, Gel, Bottled
Water, vouchers , pen but the best was an engraved wine glass with the
Aldrige logo , the local medieval church . Fantastic best goodies I've
had this year !!
A great day in the sun - fantastic organisation , with childrens races,
a 5 K and plenty of marshalls around the course to help with the light
traffic.
10/10 then for this race!!
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