Blackpool Summer 10k

Well, it was Andy's turn for a 10k race! After getting up very early this morning we headed out to Blackpool so he could take part in the Blackpool Summer 10k, a very well organised run by Fylde Coast Running. Race HQ was located at the Hilton Hotel with parking in the field next door. Everything was easy to find so we picked up Andy's running number nice and early, he grabbed a coffee then we headed out to find the start, located on the prom just below the hotel. 

The boys and I found an ideal vantage point for watching the runners set off and then Andy headed back to the start line just before 9.30am when the race would begin. The gun went off and so did the runners. Luckily Andy was easily spotted in his hi-vis yellow WWC shirt among all the other participants! 

After the runners had all passed us we dropped down from our spot and crossed the prom, heading for the lower prom where they would soon be looping back. Sure enough as soon as we'd found a spot to sit there they were! We cheered and waved as Andy went by, still looking fresh. We stayed and cheered others on afterwards till the last runners had gone by, including a man very authentically dressed as Mr. Tumble complete with make up and signing 'thank you' to the crowd in Makaton! I think that William was very impressed that Mr Tumble is a runner too! 

We headed back up onto the prom to the finish line where Andy came in at an amazing 55.27, which is a new 10k PB for him (knocking just over 2 minutes off his previous time!). He came in 212th place too in a field of 512.  A fantastic medal and a wagon wheel waited for him at the finish. Too bad he didn't get to eat it as it ended up being halved for the boys! 

Andy said he really enjoyed it and could possibly be persuaded to attempt a flat 10 miler or half marathon there next year (with a lot more training of course). As for me I think I'd quite like to try the 10k first! All in all a great morning in Blackpool!