STRIDERS 10k, HOMEBUSH

Warm stormy weather for the race today. The road was soaked from the storms that started up at about 5am in the morning, however during the race the worst we came across was a light drizzle.

Started off well with a group of three leading out at around 3:00/km, another group of two a little bit behind, and myself just off the back. Ran by myself with the duo in sight for the first 4km, until Keith Bateman ran past. This worked out quite well as it gave me someone to chase. Kept within range despite slowing over the second half, and was able to get back onto his heels with 1500m to go. Heading into the home stretch I had a red hot go of trying to overtake Keith however it seemed everytime I put the surge in he would respond from the front- maintaining his lead. Lost out in the sprint finish, and came across in just over 34mins (34:01 for 7th place).

A little disappointed with the time, however the place was good. The course had quite a few hairpin turns, and the gravel section was turned into a slippery sludge by the rain. Back started to sieze up around the half way mark however it did not force me to slow dramatically (or pull out!). As I write it is still a bit stiff. Must keep on top of the treatments and rehabilitation exercises. Will look torwards Lane Cove in November for a PB.

Good showing by ERS athletes Jeff A, Tim B and Brett M. Vikki Q ran a sub 50 and Peter Fogale had a great time as the 55min pace setter. By far the highlight for the day was my Diana running her first Striders 10k and smashing the 50min mark with a 48:36! Incrediably proud of her. She will be looking for a PB at Lane Cove next month too!

RACE:

1) 10min progressive w/up (5:00/km down to 3:00km). Drills (2 x knee lift #1, 2 x high knees)

2) RACE 34:01 (10.11km), 16:44 (5k split) 17:17 (10k split). Avg HR 186BPM (192BPM MAX). Avg Spd. 3:22/km.

3) 10min c/down. 15km total.