On the 5th of October, I went to run the 5K ParkRun at Northala Fields. Lately, I’ve started running more regularly at this location because I was told it’s flatter, and it’s a single lap course, unlike Harrow ParkRun where I’d been doing three laps. My Dad also found a really nice community of runners there, with lots of adults who’ve been eager to help and support me. Since ParkRun requires children under 11 to run with a responsible adult, my Dad always has to find someone to run alongside me during the race.
I’d already run at Northala Fields a couple of times before and managed to set a personal best (PB) of 19:34. But this time, I was determined to beat that time. As usual, my Dad had arranged for someone to run with me, and I was really focused on my goal: to break into the 18-minute range for a 5K ParkRun before I turn 10.
I like to start near the front at ParkRun because I’m quick off the line, and I didn’t want to get stuck behind slower runners who might hold me up. I managed to position myself right at the front, and I had two people lined up to support me at the start, both eager to help me achieve my goal.
As the race began, I stuck close to the person pacing me, although I got a bit excited and overtook him a few times before settling into a good rhythm behind him. I was pushing myself as hard as I could, aiming to keep a pace of 3:50 per kilometre. I knew this was a pretty ambitious target, but I was really determined to beat my PB of 19:34.
Throughout the race, I felt strong and full of energy. I kept up with the pacer and stayed focused. Normally, I don’t like running on the stone path at Northala Fields, but today, it didn’t bother me at all. I was completely focused on my goal and felt more determined than ever. With just 1 kilometre left, I spotted my Dad, who told me I was on track to hit my target. That really motivated me to push even harder. I picked up my pace, sprinted towards the finish line, and managed to smash my PB with a new time of 19:23. I was absolutely thrilled, and the best part was that I still felt like I had more energy to give!
I couldn’t wait to scan my time and see my result. I was even more excited to find out my age grade percentage, which is something I always look forward to. When the results came through, I discovered I had achieved an age grade percentage of 84.35%, which is the highest I’ve ever managed. That made me feel incredibly proud of myself.
I’m so grateful to the wonderful community at Northala Fields. The people there have been so kind and supportive, always willing to help me with my runs. I don’t want to single out anyone by name, but they know who they are, and I really couldn’t have achieved what I have without their support.
Even though I’m really happy with my new PB, I know I can do even better. I’ve picked up a few tips on how to improve, and I’m already looking forward to coming back soon, determined to beat my time once again!
