Having run consistently for two years, I like to think that I’ve come a long way as a runner. Ultimately, though, I’m still very new to this sport and constantly learning. My recent first foray into the world of track racing certainly taught a few lessons.
A relatively casual open meet event included six runners, four veterans and two u18s. Here’s eight things I learnt over two laps of the track.
#1. There Are Levels To This Game
By no means am I even close to the sub-elite or advanced amateurs, but I do consider myself a competent runner. Crossing the line in first place at a local Parkrun just 48 hours earlier had given me an ego boost, but I was quickly put back in my place over 800m.
I was comfortably beaten by the two u18 runners, who respectively finished five and eight seconds ahead of me. I suspect the gap would have only continued to widen over a longer distance too. Levels.
More importantly, though, it really drove lesson two home.
#2. It’s You Versus You
When I started running again two years ago, the thought of racing couldn’t have been further from the agenda. As soon as I laced up at an event, though, a competitive streak emerged. Very few things in this life beat the buzz of regaining the position that had been lost half a kilometre earlier.
With no real threat of gaining or losing positions after the first 50 metres or so, it actually felt quite nice to run my own race without any concern for others. It was purely me versus the clock. And a sub 2:30 finish was probably a more enjoyable outcome than winning with a 2:31.
#3. Always Check The Loo Roll Situation
A quick and self-explanatory lesson this one.
Thankfully, it was on the basin rather than the toilet roll holder. Disaster averted.
#4. My Acceleration Needs Work
There is no way I could’ve beaten the two u18s on the day. Nonetheless, if it had been a close race, the opening 100 metres is where I’d have lost it. They were already well ahead by the end of the first bend.
As I typically run 5k or longer, there’s no need for a rapid start. As long as I can settle into a pack, I’m usually happy. However, the lack of speed sessions I’ve implemented in training had nowhere to hide on the track.
I’ve tried a couple of 100m sprints since and it’s not been pretty. There’s definitely a reason I used to repeatedly finish last on school sports days. If I plan to run shorter distances again, stronger starts is something I need to work on.
#5. The 800m Is A Specialist Distance
I’ll be honest, I can run a 5k at a speed that feels relatively close to maximum output. So, I thought I’d be able to pretty much sprint the 800m before I test ran it a fortnight before race day. Very naive.
Two laps doesn’t seem too daunting, but it left me feeling more knackered than an average 5k. I could definitely feel the lactate acid in those final 200 metres. Big respect to anyone that does this regularly.
#6. The Running Community Is Even Better Than I Thought
Parkrun has a great spirit. Events like half marathons have an incredible atmosphere, especially when you learn about the stories behind fundraising runners etc. But the track meet had its own unique vibe, and one that cements my belief that this is the best sporting community on the planet.
Competitors ranged from toddlers to people in their 70s but it was the youth section that really blew me away. As a fat kid, athletics completely bypassed me. But it is brilliant and I’ll be ecstatic if it’s a path my child wants to follow.
#7. Warming Up Is Crucial
I’m one of those that turns up to Parkrun, does a few random stretches, and runs. Seeing more experienced runners, and even the youngsters, take their warm ups more seriously has made me have a re-think.
And at the big age of 37, it’s probably important that I do this sooner rather than later if I want to avoid picking up injuries.
#8. I’m Getting Addicted
I basically built an entire bank holiday around 2 minutes and 28 seconds of running, and my only regret was not signing up for the 1,500m too.
For someone that only laced up again to shed a bit of timber, I am now fully invested in becoming a better runner. It’s a central part of my daily routine, social life, and way of thinking. If running was previously an escape from the stresses of modern life, it’s now simply the happy place where I want to be.
As the new experiences continue, that feeling only seems to grow.
