The one stop resource for women's running.

Running the Foxtrot 5

This race was brand new for 2005. The event was well planned, with some toilets en route, a t-shirt for all competitors, and a very friendly atmosphere.

I was using my heart rate monitor in racing for the first time, and although I was not aiming for a particular finish time I was very pleased with my race and the result. Weather conditions were good - sunny but not too hot, and the well-planned course was mainly flat.

I started the race steadily, with an aim to keep close to 75% of my max HR. I got into a good rhythm and after the half way mark I was not overtaken by anyone for the remainder of the race!

For the last couple of miles I found myself running with couple of women who belonged to the Women's Running Network (this was where I first heard of the organisation), and settled into their pace and rhythm. As mile 5 approached I realised I was feeling good, and still had plenty of energy left. So I began to up my pace. I overtook about 10 runners and when I reached the finishing line I felt as if I could have carried on for another few more miles!

One of the main factors this was such a good run was due to my heart rate monitor. I was able to ensure I kept a steady pace at the beginning, (which is not easy when so many people overtake you at a sprinting speed), and increase my pace towards the end as I still had glycogen reserves left.

back to Races and Events