Sibling Rivalry - victorious, for now

The 10K sibling rivalry has been decided, for now.

Despite crappy weather, I really enjoyed yesterday's 10K race in Staines. Not known for being the most exotic part England, I wasn't expecting too much from the local 10K race. However I was happy to see my expectations exceeded in what was a well-orgasnised and marshalled race. And, brotherly rivalry has, for now, been happily laid to rest.

After meeting the crew from British Gas (yes, my brother, Fraser, works for one of the UK's 'favourite' companies) we had a wee warm up prior to the race. We all had different aims. Some of us after good race times, some just looking to finish and others, most importantly, looking to better their novice wee brother on his maiden run. After loosening up we readied ourselves for the race.

We were off. Avoiding the bollards which floored one runner (that must have really hurt) we headed out of the park onto the streets. Then, before I could pause for thought, the worst happened. My brother passed me. Stepping onto the road he was somehow ahead. Nightmare!

Luckily the nightmare quickly ended. I passed my brother well before the 1km mark leaving him well behind. Or so I thought. I ploughed on through, miserable wind and rain and occassional threatened sunshine. All the way, no sign of my 'bother'. Then over the line with a respectable time of 47.53. Nice! I had beat him.

I thought I had left him miles behind. Haha. Not quite. 2 minutes later I heard a familiar voice call out for me. It was him, having just finished with a very respectable time of 49 minutes. I had beat him, but by no great margin. It seems like I have some family competiton.

It looks like my summer running is going to be interesting. Fraser has decided on another 10k on July 12. I'll be runnig the same day, but elsewhere. I should, by experience, do better, but it is by no way guaranteed. I'm really going to have to run my socks off to ensure another victory over the novice. Lots of training beckons.

Staines 10K - the battle nears

It's only four days now to my first 10K of 2009. Not really a major deal I'll admit. However this race is a little bit different from others - I have one of my brothers taking part. Battle beckons.

It's his first race, but I'm not in the mood to give him any chances. Having been persuaded to run by his workmates, he's been training for 3-4 months now. And if he's telling the truth, he's progressed quite well. With training runs up to 10K and a target time of 55 minutes he's on target for a respectable finish.

It's anybody's race. Having recently run a marathon I should by rights have not problems finishing ahead. However my two week holiday after that has really dented my fitness. I've been catching up with my efforts and it looks like it could well be a close one on Sunday.