Fleetwood Half Marathon

Lancashire, Sunday, August 25, 2013

Graeme Walton

Hammering along the coast ...My second attempt at this one. Katy was tempted to have a run too, however on checking to see if she could enter on the day we found out that the race was full. As always I got there with time to spare, picked my number up and chilled for a bit. The weather was lovely apart from a cheeky little breeze coming off the sea.

Off we set after the race briefing. The route is absolutely pancake flat with the main challenges being the wind and of course the distance. I had last years time as a target so had meant to pace it at about 7:20s. Unsurprisingly I went too fast and for the first 9 miles I was running little more than 7 minute miles. This had felt relatively comfortable especially as miles 6-9 were wind-assisted.

The pain began after the 9 mile marker as the route changed direction and the wind was now head on. Maybe it was psychological but the final 3 and a bit miles felt slightly uphill!! Anyhow I slowed a little as I battled through the latter part of the race and I was pleased to pass the 13 mile marker. I gave it a bit of a sprint finish to come home in 1:33:14, 2 minutes faster than last year so well chuffed.

The whole route is on tarmac, there are mile markers throughout and the marshalling is superb. Support is patchy but very friendly, with the race well organised. I reckon I’ll be back to do this one again, hopefully with some Strider company next time.

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