Manchester 10km

Well where do I start.  A rollercoaster of emotions to be honest. Right after the race I was completely gutted, the wind has wrecked what should have been a massive PB, but then I put it all into context. I had run 7km toe to toe with a guy who has just ran 27.57 for 10km on the track, made the top ten...and felt great doing it, so ive cheered up a bit now.

The first 5km felt relaxed and controlled, I didnt go mad at the start and worked my way up to Lemoncello by 4km. After that we went through the 5km marker in 14.07 and I thought brill, lets get the head down now and crack on.... then when we turned at old trafford- it was like hitting a brick wall.....now let me tell you, anyone who says the wind wasnt that bad, wouldnt have affected you, I can honestly say- hand on heart- it was terrible. The last 4km were brutal. Along a straight dual carriagway into wind with a 6ft + scotsman sat on your arse is not fun. It was nice having him there though as it meant I kept pushing. Sadly for me he had a bit more in the tank with 150m to go, but thats fine, at this stage the key point for me was reaching halfway controlled and feeling good over the distance- which I did. The time however was a major let down. Being totally honest I went into the race looking for 28.40 or quicker. I feel im in that sort of shape and the time at halfway lifted me..... shame it didnt get rid of the elements.

The race itself was great. Stacked with great athletes, and was brilliant for British distance running. Chris Thompson was awesome today- warmed down with him and sounds like he's getting things together again . Im telling you now- if that guy can stay injury free, he could challenge mo. His time today was worth close to 28 minutes, and he went through halfway in 13.47. There was a good atmosphere amongst the lads today, things seemed positive and anyone who says that British distance running isnt on the up needs to attend more of these events.

I will wait now to hear whether I have been selected for the European cup 10km in maderia for GB- selection meeting is tommorow so who knows. Fingers crossed I will get the nod and lay a few ghosts to rest from today out there.

Well Done to wicksy for another great run last week in Bristol and good luck to everyone for races over the coming week.