Closed roads, a mass start, entertainment, and supporters around the route… bigger races are back!
The summer’s greatest celebration of running, the ASICS London 10K returned to central London on Sunday 25 July 2021. I hadn’t stood at a startline in over 18 months, but here I was with my ASICS Frontrunner teammates, excited to see how a COVID-secure event would vary. It felt strange to be standing among 10,000 other people after spending the last 18 months alone.
Before the race
This year’s race preparation was a little different. Participants were required to fill out a health questionnaire and complete a lateral flow test 24 hours before the event. Start times were staggered depending on your finish time, so everyone was allocated a 30-minute arrival slot. We were also encouraged to arrive ‘race-ready’ to avoid further crowding and large baggage queues.
We made our way to the starting funnel while Rey led the pre-race warm-up on the big screen. The race was started by the inspirational Katie Piper, and all we had to do now was wait for our turn! It took two hours to get everyone across the finish line, but it meant that people were more spaced out.
During the race
Chimzy and I had a blast, we ran the whole thing together! The course takes you right through central London so we got to see a few sights including Trafalgar Square, St James’ Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the London Eye. There was an epic line-up of live bands and DJs at every kilometre which gave that bit of extra motivation. Shout out to the steel drums – we loved those!
The miles flew by as we chatted all the way around and we crossed the line in 54:52.
After the race
Once over the finish line, you are straight into the goody bag queue. Everyone moved through quickly with no huge queue like in previous years. There was a fantastic atmosphere and plenty of sights – I enjoyed it. One of the first, large mass events to return in the UK and it didn’t disappoint. When we run together, amazing things happen.
A huge thank you to ASICS for a great event, well done to everyone who took part.
Entry Cost: my entry was kindly gifted by ASICS
Water stations: Three – paper cups
Parking: Plenty of public transport in London
Photos: Yes, included in the entry price
Baggage Facilities: Yes – but encouraged not to use it
Post-Race Goodies: T-shirt/medal / goody bag/beer
Highlights: A good run for sightseeing
Low points: A twisty course
