This time last year I ran the Derby 10k on sunny April morning in under 48 minutes, post-Reading half marathon. This time it was a different story: I’ve had a bit of a bad back, the weather was a cold drissle, I’m 10 lb heavier, and I’ve been pulling out of events like crazy.

So it came as a bit of a surprise to really enjoy the event and was quite pleased with my time of 57.12, all things considered. It does show how quickly you can get out of condition, but the good news is that it’s possible to get it back. What I like about Derby 10k is the finish in Pride Park stadium a stand full of supporters (my old work mate James reckoned it was going to be the season’s biggest crowd).

• Time - 57.12
• Average heart rate - 178
• Calories burnt - 1,086
• Number of silly costumers - 0
• Mates’ times - Em: 56-something, Stav: 50-something
• Song to run into the stadium to - The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song by The Flaming Lips

So, tops marks to the organisers of the Derby 10k for laying on another great race. A decent (non cotton) t-shirt, water and a banana were all well received.