My local community centre is planning a couple of Sportive Events at the end of this month, among them, a 5k and 10k. As part of that, I'm taking a C25K group out, plus training to run a 10k (only my 3rd ever). This can lead to some diary clashes and a squashed training schedule.
Yesterday, we planned a "try the route" event, so that runners from anywhere could come and run the route, plus work on their PBs. The route follows a river, and goes through scenic countryside, it's as flat as a pancake!
So, yours truly took about 30 runners out on the 5k, including my own C25k group. Consequently I didn't get the opportunity to run the 10k. Probably just as well - some of them were running so fast we needed a cyclist in front of them to act as a pacer! (The first 10k runner was back in 35 minutes.)
Today, I thought, I'll do the 10k.... The first 6k went OK. I was keeping steady. But the heat was energy sapping. By 8k, I started to think I was on the edge of the Sahara. I was sweating so much, that when I looked at my fingers, they were all wrinkled...as though I'd spent an extra long time in the bath.
That last 2k was hell. What was strange, was that although I felt I was running quite quickly, in fact it was the slowest ever 2k ...12.30 min/ml. OMG. It took me 1.13.20 to finish the course. The groundsman at the centre had the sprinkler on and I was glad to stand underneath it!
Tomorrow,evening I'll be taking the C25K group out on their first 30 minute run. I'm praying for rain.
And instead of pacing them, I might act as sweeper. I could pretend that they need to learn about pacing themselves. 😜
And have to seriously reconsider doing 10k, as I'm filled with doubt after today.