Reading 10k, 2025

This was something of a comeback event, testing myself on a fast road 10k after last year's injury nonsense. Looking back, it was actually my first road 10k since September 2023. It was also my third attempt to qualify for EA Masters, following the Telford 10k in 2022 and the Tatton Park Half in 2023.

I had felt that training had gone OK but was conscious of my lack of recent race experience at this sort of thing. I found myself at the start line this morning next to another M55 contender, Simon Lodge from Stevenage. Setting off, he rapidly drew away and I realised he was in a different league. 

I tried to focus on sustainable pacing. 3:41 for each of the first two kms... too fast? I think so. The first half had a headwind, but I struggled to feel the benefit of the tailwind on the way home. Although I never reached 3:41 again, my pacing was OK. I was hoping to go sub 38, but I heaved over the line in a chip time of 8:14. Here are my stats.

Simon had clearly beaten me, but I hadn't seen anyone else with M55 on his back. Was I in the top 3? I was 6th in the overall category results...

...and on further inspection it tuned out that three of the caps ahead of me had registered for EA Masters. So no cigar today.

The quest continues!

Compton 10k, 18 May

 I had a toss-up between this race and the Netley 10k. Maybe Netley would have been better training for my Reading 10k Masters' attempt on 1 June, but I couldn't resist the appeal of a low-key trail event.

And it didn't disappoint. The whole event was very good-natured. I caught up with fellow LRRs Aland and Wayne beforehand. The lady compering worked herself into a crescendo of excitement a full five minutes before the start. Thankfully she handed over to someone else for the final countdown.

The course was excellent. Hilly chalk trails, great views, some technical sections, and enough competition to make it interesting. I gradually moved up the field throughout, and enjoyed the downhill final 2km to the finish. I was happy with sixth place, first M50 and a post-race massage courtesy of physio students at Winchester University. Here are my stats.