The inaugural Shrewsbury 10k held on Sunday 20th March had sold out quickly but I was accepted via the reserve list. As the race started at 9am we stayed overnight on Saturday at the Wetherspoons hotel – maybe not the best idea when the 6 Nations Finals were on in the bar!
However, I managed to persuade myself a steaming hot, full to the brim, hotel bath was more sensible than the rugby but even then I suffered my worst ever pre race nerves taking grip on Sunday morning.
Once I got to the main square where the race started and finished I calmed down and set off near the front of the runners when the gun went. Despite being a town 10k the route was interesting, a one lap course through the city, residential areas and Quarry Park with lots of spectator encouragement along the way. The course was also surprisingly hilly although the downs matched the ups which helped!
There were plenty of runners (860 finished) so I never ran alone which helped me maintain my pace. At the 8k mark I was itching to know my time but refrained from asking the runner next to me who was checking his watch every 30 seconds! I have been training using no technology (not even a watch) which seems to have helped me relax during races.
The last kilometre was up the town centre hills before the finish back at the main square. I was aware of a girl on my shoulder but managed to pull clear to finish as 6th woman which I was delighted with. Whilst I was aware I would never be near my 1995 10k PB I was really pleased with my time of 44.59. I didn’t stay for the presentation but am aware I did get a prize which I think was probably 3rd in the over 40 women category.
The first man finished in 33.38 and first woman in 37.24.
The race is well organised and I would certainly recommend it – however entries for 2017 are already open so it will sell out soon!
