First RR10 of the season – Royal Victoria Country Park

Yesterday was the first RR10 of the season. My first race with Lordshill was the last RR10 of the 2011 season. Last year I struggled because I had so many injuries, so I’d like to do well this year.

Getting my excuses in early

I knew that I wouldn’t be able to run well for a variety of reasons. These include still being tired from Paris marathon and being seriously overweight. I can’t seem to stop eating at the moment. Another excuse that I had was that although I had my trail shoes, I had left the insoles at home on the radiator. This meant I didn’t know how comfortable my shoes would be.

The race didn’t start too badly, so I ran the first lap (until the beach) with Alice and Becky. I knew I would not be able to maintain their pace and my right leg was hurting again.

I absolutely hate running on sandy beaches The combination of shale, shingle and sand on Netley beach is horrible. However, I didn’t get any in my shoes which was a relief.

Lap 2 of the RR10

I slowed down considerably on my second lap and was overtaken by Lynda and Luana. I decided that I should keep fighting, especially as there was a Hedge End lady on my shoulder. Eventually, I caught up with the  Cox ladies and passed them on the lovely downhill towards the beach. I then knew I just had to keep going to the finish. Fortunately, Tom Muddiman was near the bottom of the final hill giving encouragement.

The finish

I finished in 98th place, which is not a position I’m pleased with, but at least it gives me something to beat in the next race.

After I’d finished, I did a final loop to encourage Sharon, which was much more fun than trying to race it.

I’ve just looked at the results from last year’s race at Netley. I finished in 98th position then as well. Interestingly, I didn’t really push myself last year. 🙁 Last year I finished in 55th position. If I want to finish in that position in my next race, I’m going to have to work hard!