My first 10k race

[AliB1]

Well today was the day and what a beautiful day for a run? Lots of blue sky, sun and not hot!

I was quite nervous this morning but it did helped that I was going to the race with a friend from running club...we were both 10k virgins! Going to keep this short as need to get in the shower and get food.

Have to say I did find it very tough, not helped by going off too fast for me but hey ho don't know when I will learn that lesson. The marshals were fantastic and I have anew name 'go Orpington' coz that's what they kept shouting (had my club top on). The marshals were fantastic and there were also encouraging signs every 50 yards or so up a horrible hill to keep you going. The course was half road and half cross country (muddy!!) but had quite a few hills. Would definitely recommend The Petts Wood 10k to anyone in the area looking for a race next year!

Well the bit you have all been waiting for is how long did it take? I beat my previous best for 10k (well only one I had done) by 3.30 mins....Times was 74 mins and 6 seconds. I now have a PB to beat...can't wait to next year!!!

Was going to post a picture of my lovely medal but don't know how from the iPad..can't seem to click in choose file!!

[BettyJane Graduate]

Well Done.

Maybe I'll be ready for next time.

[Greg_M Graduate]

Great work Ali.

The muddy cross country sections do make it harder. I hope you will feel suitably smug and self satisfied for the rest of the day.

[swanscot Graduate]

Congratulations on running a 10K race. The mixed terrain sounds like a good course. You ran a good time especially with the hills and muddy off-road sections.

[Deryn61 Graduate]

Fantastic, well done Go Orpington! You did an excellent time especially given the terrain, I went and cheered at the Cardiff half mara today and wished more people had put their names on tops! One guy had "running sucks" on his tshirt, I assume he was being ironic!

[shelleymcb Graduate]

well done Ali. sounds like you had a lot of fun. great time aswell you should be very happy with that. X

[Gridlet Graduate]

Fab-u-lous!! Well done you! You did great Ali!

[AliB1 Graduate]

Thanks all! I am still smiling (have been since I finished!) and pleased with my time.... I can only get faster!!!! have celebrated with a few Vinos!!!!

[laj1987 Graduate]

Congrats - knew you could do it 'Orpington'

[TJFlute]

Sorry I'm late to congratulate (somehow missed this blog) but well done Ali!! Another of those goals ticked off

[AliB1 Graduate in reply to TJFlute]

There are so many these days I am finding it hard to keep up with what everyone is up too!

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Great news, you see you could do it