Yesterday evening saw my return to racing some 6 weeks after my last outing. I chose the Podium 5k as the next race to do a while ago as it fell perfectly in with my training plan. I saw it as something of a loosener and sharpener for the intercounties crosscountry next weekend.
The logic behind the race is very simple. You gather a pack of the quickest runners in the region, stick them all on the same bill on a pan flat course and then let them slog it out against each other, pushing each other to go even quicker.
The fact that the organisers even offer free entry to runners who have already run under 16 minutes for the distance makes it even more appealing.
The course is set as just under 5 laps of a cycle track, and rather than just being a continuous oval shaped course, there are just enough twists and gradual corners around to keep you interested.
Yesterday's race saw a front pack of 9 runners pull away from the rest after about half a mile, which left me battling it out with Josh Tighe of Salford Harriers for the remaining top 10 placing. As it turns out, after a close run battle, which saw us too-and-frowing all the way round, it was the Salford lad that came out on top this time.
But after a difficult week in training, I am extremely proud of my 11th place finish and a massive new PB of 15:24, some 22 seconds quicker than my previous best.
If you have desires on setting yourself a new best in the 5k distance, then this is certainly the race in which to do it. I would imagine there will be some phenomenal times placed here come the summer season.
Conveniently placed just off the motorway in Nelson near Burnley, it isn't too far to travel either.
Tonight I ran 16.3 miles as my long run, which pulls me up to 59 miles for the week.
