Darlington Pit Stop

Croft Racing Circuit, Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Emma Detchon

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!

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