Call me biased but York 10K is one of my favourite events. It was the first race I entered back in 2013. It is a fantastic course taking in this beautiful city with sights of York Minster, the city walls, the River Ouse…. it is really well organised and I cannot recommend it enough – anyone would think I was on commission! It’s a bit pricey for a 10K (especially as I live here and could run the route for free) but I really love it and will always take part if I can.
Before the Race
The event village was buzzing with about 6,000 runners. It was really nice to meet with Fitmums from different clubs and a few people from Instagram. There was a mass warm up which I didn’t do…. I didn’t bother wearing my Garmin either! Having already covered 42 miles during the week I wasn’t aiming for a time, I was just there to enjoy the day.
The Route
Starting from York Racecourse you head into the city centre along Bishopthorpe Road, drop down to the Ouse and under the city walls to Nunnery Lane and head under Micklegate Bar. You run over the bridge and join Coney Street, trying to avoid the temptation of the HIgh Street shops…. sadly they were closed so I couldn’t make a sneaky LUSH purchase. The next part of the course is the best bit – running past York Minster with its bells ringing. You then head onto Goodramgate and Parliament Street before heading past Clifford’s Tower, followed by a nice shadier section by the river before you run over the Millennium Bridge rejoin Bishy Road and back up to the finish.
Top tip: Don’t go all out as you approach the Racecourse on the way back – you still have about another mile to go there are two out and backs before you cross the finish!
During the Race
The course has 2 water stations. Plenty of crowd support, especially the start/finish area, Bishy Road, Parliament Street and the area around the Minster. It is relatively flat but can be quite crowded in places. Thank you to the York Pipe Band for providing on course support – you guys are amazing! Shout out to everyone I met mid-race.
The Result
Official time was 55.19 which is a course a PB so I’m chuffed. Happy with that considering I took it steady. A special mention to the fabulous Fitmums – you all did amazing. You should be really proud of yourselves and I’m happy to be involved in such a fantastic club. ❤️
I’m looking forward to being back in York for the ten miler in October. If you fancy a challenge but don’t quite feel ready for a half marathon I’d recommend this race. Again, I promise I’m not on commission… although maybe I should be!
Race Breakdown: Entry Cost: Just short of £30
Water stations: 2 (Star Wars bottles non-the-less)
Parking: Plenty, nearby
Baggage Facilities: Yes, but didn’t use as onsite parking
Post Race Goodies: T-shirt, Medal, Goody-bag
Highlights: Atmosphere, support from the crowd, fantastic route
Lowpoints: Long toilet queues (standard at most races)
