Deeks Forest Park run, 8km

This morning it was the monthly Veterans' Athletics handicap run at Deeks Forest Park (named after Robert de Castella - apparently he used to train there). It used to be a lovely pine forested area but the bushfires put an end to that - now its a desolate looking area. However, it is still undulating - that hasn't changed.

I strapped my ankle and hoped for the best! Strewth picked me up this morning. Met up with Trath and Helen before the start, which I must admit was a pleasant surprise. Helen didn't look keen the other night when we were talking about the run today so expected her to win the argument about whether to go or not! Obviously not! They were doing the short course which was about 4km and they didn't hang around after the finish. But the good news is they've joined the club!

(I'm trying to do a million things at once - I'm going to Sydney for work so I am trying to pack, update my blog, washing, etc - my flight leaves in 2 hours!)

Stats:
Distance - 8km
Time - 38.48min
Av pace - 4.50min/km
Calories - 460
Didn't wear my HRM
Place - 69
Start group - 26

In short - went out too fast and paid for it on the return as indicated by average pace for each km (it was uphill on the way back or, at least, it felt like it!):
1km - 4.35
2km - 4.34
3km - 4.33
4km - 4.43
5km - 4.38
6km - 5.04
7km - 5.09
8km - 5.23

Ankle held up well though was careful on the downhill bits. Afterwards, we had a coffee or two at Black Pepper. Now I must dash and pack! :)