My target for the Great North Run was sub 1:20 and I was on target for almost all of it, but for being broken at the Nook!
In the end I ran 1:20:20, which meant I was less than 2 seconds per mile from hitting my target.
In the end I ran 1:20:20, which meant I was less than 2 seconds per mile from hitting my target.
I was running around 6:02/mile until Jarrow and the beginning of the series of climbs that have claimed the dreams of many a runner of the past 30-or-sp years. Then I started to lose just a few seconds here and there, which with tired legs it was difficult to stop the rot.
As I hit the sea-front there was a slim chance of just dipping under and I ran a good final mile but, as I saw the time on my watch tick over 1:20 with the finish line agonisingly close, I knew the target was gone.
I felt fine at the finish, which I attribute to the marathon training, but just didn't quite have the pace on the day. Still, 166th place and a good solid run for my 13th GNR. My sights now turn to the New York Marathon in November.
I have really enjoyed writing this blog and I hope someone has enjoyed reading it!