Manchester 10K

This was a surprise. Due to an injury to Mat's cousin I gained an entry to the race albeit running under a nom de plume as they say. I didn't know what to expect having never done one of these mass events before but I have to say it was very well organised and thankfully I was off in the first wave of runners.
Lots and lots of people and some famous names running too so I was in good company. Off we went on the gun and I soon got into my stride pattern. I didn't know how I'd do having done Mount Famine the day before so in my mind I though that 42 minutes would be good. It was very congested in the first kilometre and I was weaving through the pack to keep my pace even. Was that a Goyt Valley vest ahead. I didn't know of anyone running the event. Anyway he was going at a good pace so I thought I'd try and keep in touch. Road running is very different to the fells. It's all about pace and rhythm. I settled into a good stride and found myself in company of others who I judged to be of similar ability. Stick with it and there's something a bit more familiar about that white vest with the green band. 5K came up and I was feeling quite good. I glanced at my watch, 19.55. I couldn't help but give a wry smile. If I could keep this pace up then a sub 40 would be on the cards. Surely not possible and there was still that vest ahead. Around 7K I caught up with Jonathan. We exchanged some banter and I pressed on. Stay focussed and hold your form was the mantra that I kept repeating to myself. Last two clicks and I was holding on to the guys ahead. Final kilometre and I could feel it beginning to hurt. The countdown begins and I daren't look at my watch. Around the final corner with 200 to go and a quick glance down shows 39.something (my eyes can't focus and I'm not going to slow down now). Can I break the 40 minute barrier? Gathering myself I just gave it all I had left. Bingo! 39.53. I couldn't believe it, not after yesterday. Don't you just love it when a plan comes together. Running, the best thing in the world.