My second race of the year was Birchwood 10k!
Race organisation
This race was organised by the local club Spectrum Striders and aims to be the most environmentally friendly race in the North West. They make their medals from recycled materials, recycle all of their water bottles and donate money to The Mersey Forest’s 10 Million Trees planting campaign.
Free parking was provided at Birchwood Shopping Centre which was a stones throw from the number collection tent and portaloos. Number collection was well organised and straightforward with minimal queuing.
Route
The well marked route starts at Birchwood Shopping Centre in Warrington, leading out in to Birchwood Park and Science Park, after this you head out in to the country lanes of Croft and then back via three motorway bridges to the finish, this means the route isn't pancake flat but the downhills gave you the opportunity to pick up speed! There were partial road closures in place but I felt safe at all times with marshals indicating when to run to the left/ right. The volunteers from Spectrum Striders were brilliant, offering lots of encouragement out on course.
Goodys
In pursuit of their environmentally friendly credentials, a recycled wooden medal was provided.
Personal thoughts
I was super nervous for this race when I saw the amount of club runners in vests eagerly warming up but the relaxed, supportive atmosphere with minimal crowds was perfect - I quickly got in to my groove and had a blast, getting a 2023 PB!
And I was back in time for the Women's World Cup Final!
Lydia xx
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