Running
Ok, the facts first, 6km Cross Country on a pretty challenging course, 2 3km loops
Total - 28:35 (avg pace 4:46)
Splits - 13:42 and 14:43
The lesson - P A C I N G
That’s right folks, I really need to learn to pace myself properly, I did the first 3Km too fast and suffered on the second. Perhaps better pacing on the first leg would have resulted in a better time. It didn’t help that team mates from lower divisions overtook me, major 
and I had to work had to stay positive when I was feeling very exposed and For the record I was in Division 2 and sorry Ewen I was definitely not the fastest in my team.
At the end of the day though it was my first foray into Cross Country since high school and I ran my heart out so I can make no complaint. Any tips on how to pace yourself without the aid of Km markers would be most appreciated, likewise any tips on XC running. Back in high school I was full of vigour and youthful enthusiasm, I just ran as fast as I could until someone told me to stop 
I think now I need a slightly better plan than that.
The day itself was gorgeous, about 20 degrees and sunny. So much so that I warmed up in just my crop top so as not to get my singlet all sweaty, and then guess what, I capitulated and ended up making an impulse purchase of a club crop top (proud of me Vicky?) and didn’t end up feeling that self conscious afterall.
During the run I could hear lots of people calling my name and cheering which was really cool. I saw a mate from another club at a particularly cruel section on the second lap, I reckon I was looking pretty ropey by that stage, but still nice to see a friendly face and get a cheer. And this is something I HATE to admit, but not long towards then end, also after a bit of a climb I started to get my end of race panic and couldn’t get my breath, so I slowed to a walk for about 10 seconds to calm myself. Just as I got going again an O40 runner from Richmond ran up beside me and encouraged me to kick it up a bit and finish strong. I was overwhelmed by the generosity of it and it was the kick up the bum I needed, I made sure I thanked her at the end and we had a bit of a laugh. I felt a bit crappy when I finished, like maybe I had let my team down a little bit, but that was just me being stupid, all the girls were great and we looked after each other.
Next stop Latrobe Uni for the 15Km road race on Mother’s Day. I am looking forward to this one after having to miss the Run for the Kids.
So that’s the first club race out of the way, I had a fantastic day and don’t regret getting into this for a second. I am stoked to be part of a team again.
I had a “lovely” ice-bath when I got home and the legs are feeling pretty good now, but can’t be arsed cooking, I think Japanese take away will be on the cards soon.
The map and elevation of todays course can be found here if anyone is interested.
