I love the York 10k. It holds a special place in my heart as it was the very first running event I ever took part in.
That race marked the beginning of my running journey and ignited a passion that has grown stronger over the years.
It’s incredible to think that a whole decade later, I’m still lacing up my running shoes and getting out of the door!
This year, I had the opportunity to return to the York 10k as a pacer for runners aiming to finish in 70 minutes. It’s truly fulfilling to help others achieve their running goals and share the joy of running with them. I couldn’t be happier to give back to an event that means so much to me.
On race morning, the pacing team gathered, collected their flags, and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere of the race village. There was plenty to do for spectators, from enjoying a coffee to eagerly awaiting the runners’ return. Surprisingly, the weather was in our favour despite earlier forecasts of rain. Clear skies and perfect running conditions awaited us. Just after 9 AM, we lined up in the starting pens, ready to explore this beautiful city on foot.
…and we’re off!
I felt well-prepared to pace this event as I regularly run the route. I’m intimately familiar with its twists, turns, and inclines, allowing me to offer valuable insights and motivation to fellow runners. However, even with my course knowledge, I managed to take a tumble just 200 metres from the start. It was a congested area, and I was trying to navigate around slower walkers. Not my finest moment with a crowd of spectators watching!
Seeing the sights
The York 10k route takes runners through the heart of this historic city, starting at the racecourse and winding through charming streets. Runners pass by iconic landmarks like York Minster and Clifford’s Tower, then continue along the picturesque River Ouse, offering scenic views and a refreshing breeze. A brief detour through Rowntree Park precedes the finish back at the racecourse, where a cheering crowd of spectators awaited to celebrate everyone’s success.
It was a fantastic day, not only for the runners but also for me as a volunteer. Being able to contribute to the success of an event that means so much to our community was immensely rewarding. Despite my fall, I managed to pace the time and crossed the finish line in 1:09:38.
Room for improvement
While there were some minor issues like long toilet queues and persistent parking challenges, the overall experience of the York 10k was incredibly rewarding. For runners aiming for a personal best, the flat and fast course is perfect—just be sure to arrive early, as the one-way system can cause traffic congestion.
I may be biased, but events like these bring our community together, celebrating our shared passion for running and our appreciation for the city we call home. A huge thank you to all the marshalls and volunteers—they were amazing, and thanks to the NPV team for having me pace again!
