Caernarfon 10k

Race: Caernarfon 10k (North Wales Championships)
Time/Position: 35.56 (8th from 156 [2nd V45])
Although I was quite pleased to dip under 36 minutes on this hilly course, in wet and rather windy conditions, it was a shame that I blew up completely in the last kilometre. Not surprising, really, given the obvious lack of speed endurance: plenty of slow endurance, and plenty of short speedwork, but not much suitable for the specific demands of a 10k. That said, I've done more than 50 10k's in the past, so should have some idea about pacing! The route was reversed, which makes it slightly easier, with a sharp hill at the start and a few more steep climbs heading west. A headwind at times, with small groups forming and breaking, then the fast descent going through 5k in 18.07. A cross-tailwind didn't have a great deal of effect on the fast run along the coastal path back to Caernarfon. I moved up into sixth place, finishing strongly (initially) before blowing right at the end where I was pushed back into eighth place, missing out on the category win by 6 seconds. I always enjoy this course though: must have done it 7 or 8 times in both directions.