After a 3-week holiday of eating and drinking and very little running I guess the last thing I wanted was a 10 mile race the weekend of getting home. But as I am trying to get a race in every month.... needs must.

Early drive down to Blackpool and found parking pretty close to the start/registration area. Registration was done on the promenade and was quick and efficient. There had been traffic issues that morning, so the race was delayed whilst the runners were able to arrive. It was a shame about the delay as it was a hot day and only going to get hotter the later we set off.

The course was an up down loop kind of affair of Blackpool promenade, was nice to run down the coast line and thankfully it wasn’t too windy (which I believe can be an issue here). It was a fairly easy 10 mile with very little incline. As with a lot of Fylde Coast events it had a team of pacers and we even had race commentary at the half way point and over the finish line.

Even early in the day there were a few “characters” about in Blackpool who liked to make comments to runners as they passed, nothing too bad but it did make me aware of who I was running passed. Also towards the end as lunch time approached I was getting very jealous of all the tourists with their finish and chips, I’m sure the smell alone got me to the end!

The finish area was very well supported and crossing the line I got my medal, water and a snack. You don’t get loads with Fylde Coast running events but for the price I always find what you get reasonable. They provide some of the best medals out there as well.

Following this race, the wife and I made the decision to become FCR members. The events are well run, friendly and very inclusive no matter what your standard.