I arrived at Colchester FC around 7:30 - it was very convenient to park at the stadium. There was an organised warmup at 8:25 but I preferred a short run round the car park before taking my place for the start at 8.50. It wasn’t long to wait and we were off at 9 prompt to the backing of The Prodigy - Firestarter.
The organisers were helpful in providing a sped up video of the route filmed from a motorbike in advance of the race, so I knew the first 2.5 miles were downhill. I went ahead of target pace here as I wanted to bank some time for the 2 main hills coming up. The first was a short steep climb before turning into the high street where the support was really good. Then another shortish downhill before a ‘gentler’ but long hill that seemed to go on for about a mile. By this point, my time had balanced out and I was still slightly ahead of target. The remaining 7 miles or so should be fairly flat. I maintained my pace until about mile 9 and then the 1:40 pacer came past me with a whole group of followers 😁. I tried to keep with them as that was my target, but gradually fell back. I kept them in sight though. The last section is ‘Straight Road’ which goes on and on!! 😁. After that a final turn into the stadium approach to finish just a few seconds outside my target time, knocking 3 min off my pb set on the flat in Feb, so was really pleased and surprised with that result. The support from marshals and residents was brilliant, and the weather was perfect.
Manchester Half Report
My first half marathon - I think 🤔 
My 1st half marathon race
My birthday half!
