This week saw me attending the third Manchester 5k race series with one each week in June on a Thursday evening at 7.30pm.

After my opening run of 16.59 I wasn’t sure how this race was going to go. With less miles in the legs, more taper and more speed work done I was feeling positive.

Looking around at the start for who I should avoid going off to hard with, I even saw two off our local rivals from Sheffield Running Club, even if it was just for the start. However I had to get in, not only do we have a strong team for Dam Flask relays we also have 120 runners. Nice bragging rights. Anyway back to the race, knowing the course a little better was also an advantage  beginning the race a bit more steady hitting the first mile in 5.22, I was 4th in the field moving close on the shoulder of 3rd and moving past him putting around 9 seconds on him and clocking 5.33 for the 2nd mile. Knowing the 3rd mile which I always struggle to hold. I had to push push push and coming into the final straight I was over taken and now back in 4th I tried to respond but I had nothing. He finished In 16.45 and I was back in 16.48, a little disappointed with the outcome. Saying this I am leading the series with an average time of 16.54 around 10 seconds ahead of 2nd with one race to go for £100 sports shoes voucher. It will be a tactical race next week just ensuring i don’t get beat by 10 seconds.

This race was my road PB and the quickest I have ran since 2011. It looks like training is coming together nicely.

The same company will be traveling to huddersfield for the weekly 5k in July. Cannonball events, make sure you check it out.

79 people competed.

The winner was Billy McCartney of Salford Harriers & AC in 16:25

First female was Jenny Pilling of Rochdale Harriers & AC in 19:30

First and only Strider in 4th Place was Tom Halloway in 16:48

Full results below