First 10k. Advice please!

[SFRSmum]

Hi all,

Im running my first 10k in October (AJ bell, great Scottish run 🏃‍♀️)

I've never ran a organised run before (well apart from parkrun) so im a bit clueless as to how it all works and ive got a couple of questions i can't find clear answers to online. Probably stupid questions!

Firstly, we set off in waves going on our predicted run times. I predicted 1hr 10 mins if I remember correctly but the truth is ive absolutely no idea how long it'll take me. I complete 5k in 26 to 27 mins but its hard and I couldn't do 10k at that pace. I then came across a post on strava from someone who said he is a pacer for the race, does this mean we have to stay within our wave group? Or can we pull ahead if the pace is too slow or fall back if its too fast?

Secondly, on the day, registration opens at 7am, do we have to be there for 7am? My wave won't start until nearly 9am, theres a warm up at 8.20. How soon should I get there?

Finally, after, is there much milling about or do people disperse quickly? Sounds daft but we've got a premier inn booked and id like to get a shower before they check out time of 12pm!

Im sorry for the silly questions, im a serial planner and the unknown makes me anxious 🤣

Im wearing shorts and long sleeved t shirt. Ill wear old leggings and a jumper at the start line and leave them there. I am swithering about taking a lightweight running jacket but think the long t shirt will be fine.

Husband will meet me at the finish with a jumper and a jacket so ill be ok.

It looks like its going to be dry between 8 and 10 at the moment so hoping that doesn't change over the next 24hrs!

Oh no @Surlycoo hopefully you feel ok today and manage it, theres no shame in walking if you have to.

Oh what a shame.. hope you feel better but only go for it of you feel good!

@Surlycoo
@TaupeRaven
@TaupeRaven

And any others who ran the AJ Bell today.
How did you all get on?

Im so so so proud, I went above and beyond my target of 1hr 10 and completed it in just under 57 mins. It didnt feel particularly hard at any point. The last 800m I had to dig deep but I think that was more mental than physical. The closer distance countdown was more detrimental for me

Hope you all had a fantastic run and now have your feet up and resting.

@SFRSmum Bravo! Congratulations. Your training and preparation really paid off. Did you enjoy the atmosphere and was it well organised.

Fantastic well done!!!

I bloody smashed it as well. Considering I’ve never run 10k I was pleased with my 1 hour 13 time as had been planning to stick with the 1 hour 25 pacer.

I also didn’t find it difficult just that last 400m where you realise how far 400m actually is.

So proud of myself and it was such a great thing to be a part of.

Well done ladies!!
half marathon next year? ;)

Ive already signed up! And yes, for the half!

Well done @Surlycoo that is an incredible time, especially as youd not gone that far before and with you thinking you might not be able to do it at all a few days ago.
Amazing!

Good lass!