Martigny 8k Road

Well tell a bit of a lie, it is actually just short of 8k 7800 (ish) 

For me the target was to have a good run and see where I am fitness wise.  I prefer benchmark distances like either a 5k or a 10k to guage my performance, but this gave me the opportunity to run nonetheless.

The weather has been a bit cold recently as we make our way into winter, but Saturday was lovely, actually about 15 degrees and not much wind at all. (Better than the UK that is for sure!)  Very lucky because on the way home the heavens opened and it has been raining ever since!  So to the race, as said in the blog it was a local race really although maybe 2000 franks for the win, so although I expected a few Africans, there were about 20 who turned up, and the main field only consisted of about 70 runners.  Now the course was not easy, 8 laps of the same loop around the town centre, designed for spectators, which is great in one respect, but it does upset your rhythm, well for me it did.  I think I counted 9 sharp turns on each lap, so found it quite difficult.  I went off with the leaders but it soon became apparent that it was too quick for me and I dropped off the pace.  I was about 100 metres clear of the chasing pack so then proceeded to run 5 laps on my own, getting slower every lap.  With just over one to go the chasing pack caught me, but this turned out to be the best thing because I then managed to get on their rhythm and ended up having a second wind, leading the pack for the remaining 4 mins or so and then out-kicking all in it.  Initially I was pretty disappointed as I came 13th, but on reflection I ran 23.42 with probably 5k all on my own.  Having had a terrible patch in the middle, I came back strong to record a time that would equate to just outside 30 mins for 10k.  Given that it was largely a time trial, on a twisty windy course, I am really happy.  On a good run, in a group I think I am in sub 30 shape right now for 10k.  My pb was run in March after a great winter, so for me that is really encouraging.

Nearly forgot to say, when I crossed the line, there was a big brawl going on between all the Africans.  I think pretty much Eritrea v Ethiopia.  They were arguing over who finished where, especially if maybe 1000 franks on the outcome.  Not a very good scene if you ask me.  I know that money is extremely important to these guys and makes a huge difference, but when things like this happen in small races it is not good for the sport, and just goes to show how money can have a nasty impact on a sport which is usually so friendly and respectful.

Thanks,

Neil