Parkrun 5k 27/03/10
It was our first Parkrun of the year and with the gusting wind along the coast this was never going to be easy. And the wind was in the wrong direction – in our faces on the return leg just when you feel you might throw in the (beach) towel. Curses. Douglas's first Parkrun today – and as everyone seems to have run 30~45 seconds slower it should only get easier.
I started fast hoping the ground I'd make in the first half would offset the slow second half. I might even have pulled into the lead briefly before Iain from Carnegie and a young lad went past. Next I heard heavy breathing and Crooky went by giving it his all, as ever.
As we went into the half way turn around Willie appeared – I thought I might stay ahead for at least 3 km but Willie Jar Super Star has been in such good form of late he cruised past before we were even settled back onto the Prom again. I tried to sneak into his wind shadow but there was no hiding from the stiff breeze and it made little difference. I knew he would be looking to share the work back to the start and I just about managed to pull alongside but it nearly killed me and I had to give in before I coughed up a lung.
Karen was on the bike supporting - now why didn't I think of that?
The HBT ladies were combining a hen party with the 5k. Louise said she felt oven-ready afterwards.There is nothing to do at this point but try and keep form and try to mentally rise above the hurricane making your ears flap. I have never worked harder and yet it was my slowest yet Parkrun – not much under 18 minutes, but also my highest position – 5th. Willie (4th) was highest place by age grading and Brian C moved up to an impressive second despite being his slowest parkrun by time.
Its a tough game but you know the pain will soon cease - either you'll drop dead (and that wouldn't be so bad) or you'll cross the line. After which I took some photos then we headed for a further few miles up the Almond, into Dalmeny Estate, down to the beach then back the way we had come to the car. About 11.5 miles total and a good start to the weekend. I had some breakfast in the van – very glad I hadn't eaten earlier as it would have been left on the esplanade.
In summary, its a necessary evil. And if someone could arrange for the wind to desist 9.30am Sat mornings it would be much appreciated.
Report and photos pb
Results here
Mary's Blog here
