Report by: Karen Clark
Race Date: Friday 6th September, 2024
As an entrant to the Great North Run, I received several invites to participate in the 5k on the Friday evening before race day. I decided to enter, unsure whether this would be a positive experience or whether it would attract so many runners that it would be difficult to run at a reasonable pace. There was one way to find out!
I had a hip injury in the run up to the Great North Run. I had been advised that the Great North Run wasn’t out of the question but I needed to revise my goals and that I might have to withdraw from the 5k, as running at a faster pace could trigger the hip pain again.
The injury had improved with the physio exercises. It was all looking hopeful. I planned to go ahead with both races.
Friday evening came and I made my way to starting area at the quayside. Despite the predicted rain, it turned out to be a pleasant evening. There were a lot of people taking part, but not as many as I had expected. Runners were asked to assemble in their categories.
The course is a flattish 5K route around the quayside. There was a lot of support from the crowds.
The race began with the elite runners. As my race category started, there was the initial scramble for the first ½ mile. However, the runners soon spread out and although it was busy, it was possible to maintain a reasonable pace around the quayside. There was some congestion on a narrow section towards the end of the route but all in all, an enjoyable race.
I finished in 23:50, which I was happy with, given my hip injury. I decided not to push too hard, as I didn’t want to compromise the Great North Run.
All participants received a medal, goody bag and a finishers t-shirt.
All in all, a fun and worthwhile event. While I wouldn’t make the trip just to take part in the Great North 5k, I will enter again, next year, as I have a place in the Great North Run.
First man was Chris Thompson (no club listed) in 15:23.
First lady was Charlotte Dillon (Houghton Harriers &AC) in 17:39.
Karen was the only Strider listed in the results, position 312th, chip time 23:50 and FIRST in the V60 age category. Well done Karen!
Link to the results here.