We’re always being told at work (Teesside Uni) to promote our new Darlington campus so when Jo Richardson said she was doing the Darlington Pit Stop 10k I thought I might as well join in. I got there early as it said limited entries on the night but it didn’t seem to be a problem, I think they must say that to put people off from entering on the night and to make their admin easier. They had a children’s race beforehand, well over 8s, so poor Erin missed out and a wheelchair race which makes the night a bit more of a fun occasion.
The course is 3 laps and flat but you can feel the slight gradients on the course, the first section being slightly down so we all started a bit quickly. I realised it was so hot and humid that it wasn’t going to be a great run so I settled into the usual plod. Jo ran ahead but had to pull out after the first lap feeling sick and a bit dehydrated. So onto the second lap where just before 5k the first man came flying past on his way to the finish. After that I got to see a few of the faster runners come past, always good to see how focused they are.
After a big cheer from Jo and Louise I felt much better on the final lap and managed to get past a few people. Although its laps and flat it’s got quite good views, it’s very tempting to cut the corners off but you’re only cheating yourself! I crossed the finish line and was handed a Darlington Harriers mug full of water, I guess they were trying to save on plastic cups but without washing them out it was full of dust and bits and I couldn’t have drunk it. It’s a nice run and a 10k PB for me!