Thought I was running across the Sahara...

[Teresa1632]

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.

[Debston Graduate10]

I think you need to claim your Graduate 10K badge! Well done for keeping on, despite the Sahara heat!

[Teresa1632 Graduate10 in reply to Debston]

Ooh... mist look at how to do that. It might be the last 10k medal!

[cheekychipmunks Graduate10]

Don’t knock that time Teresa, especially in the heat - it wasn’t bad at all. 🏃‍♀️👍🏃‍♀️ Very well done continuing, especially as it sounds like the last 2k weren’t your favourite! 🥵🥵🥵

[Teresa1632 Graduate10 in reply to cheekychipmunks]

It was hell...and weird. I thought I was running fast in the last 2k, but it was my slowest! Must be my mind playing tricks...or delirium. Or the salt from sweat running into my eyes 🤪.

Last year on this course, everyone came back in an hour. I'll not make that time. Eèek!