Midland Road Relays

So I just got back from Sutton Park and thought I would get my blog report up early... before I go for a curry with the lads to celebrate our victory. It was a great team effort today and we walked away with the win- the first time we have won the midlands since 2003- so the lads are really happy- Well done guys.

From a personal point of view it went great. I ran the fastest long stage (25.53)- which is funny as for the last three years I have run (25.58, 25.58, 25.52- i reckon they just keep last years time- lol and then that today). After a pretty easy week of jogging, I was shocked that I felt so controlled. I ran stage seven and fully expected to be chasing down the leaders--- but-- our leg 6 guy ran amazing and for the first time for a while I was handed the lead. With nothing but the bike to chase, I guess I just got my head down and hoped for the best. With last weeks disappointment ringing in my ears-- I set off like scared rabbit. It wasnt until i got to the turn that I realised the extent of our lead, and at this point actually remembered why I was racing in the first place-- to enjoy the run out and relax. It was nice to do a race out front and push myself- having raced at sutton park since i was 8-- you get to know the course well, so mentally you know when you should be hurting- or not.

I pushed hard in the last mile as i knew every second would count in the team race- and was suprised when I crossed the line and saw the time- I know im in decent shape (you wouldnt believe it after my run last week- i know!) but with the wind and the fact that I was on my own, I was pleased. To be honest i didnt really know what to expect- I thought i would either feel flat as a pancake or fresh from all the rest- gladly it was the latter. With the team then holding the lead, it was a good day at the office. I love the relays- they are always fun, and always throw up some suprise runs, and highlight the team spirit some clubs have....Was good to see chris davies back flying again today- he ran 14.01 for the short stage. The guy is an animal at sutton park and always pulls it out of the bag.

So for me now the next race on the horizon will be back at Sutton park at the national 12 stage relays. Hopefully I can go quicker there and push for sub 25.30, but who knows, its a funny event the relays--so we will see. As long as we beat those dirty belgrave boys i dont mind running 28 mins!!!!!

Good luck to all the lads racing tommorrow!! Phil