Flintshire 10k

Race: Flintshire 10k
Time/Position: 36.10 (4th from 566 [1st V45])
The route for this long-established race has changed numerous times over the years: this new version echoed the much older two lap run up the gently inclining Ruthin Road. I can remember going under 37 minutes for the first time on the old course a decade ago. A big field as we set off from the school, and a lot of twists and turns as the route avoids the middle of town. This slowed times down a bit, as did another tortuous section higher up after the hill - through gates and narrow entrances. The long and gradual descent is fast, though, and I gradually worked my way through some quick starters. I was third at the Flintshire 10k two years ago, on the very hilly version, and have been fifth in the past too. The gaps were quite big by the final mile.