Great Birmingham 10km - We did it, just about!
It was a day not to forget – 8,000 runners took over the centre of Birmingham for the annual 10km in the blistering heat.
Arriving 30 minutes before my start time at 10.57am, we lined up at the start-line next to Aston University.
The heat was already rising and as last minute photographs were taken, we looked at one another, wondering what we'd let ourselves in for.
As the energetic warm-ups finished and the starting gun was fired we filed out, heading toward Digbeth.
Thankfully, a few miles down the route, in Balsall Heath, residents sprayed us with water guns, providing welcome refreshment in the heat.
But as we turned the corner, hitting the half-way mark, at Cannon Hill Park the pain started to settle in.
From here on in it felt like a steady uphill slog back up to the Bullring and the finish line outside the university.
If it was not for the cheering crowds all along the route I don't think we could have done it.
At the finish line there was free massages for those tired legs along with a goody bag and a medal.
The party atmosphere went well on in to the afternoon with many of the city's pubs filled with runners.
The event was a clear success – not just in getting people active but also raising thousands of pounds for charity.
*We took part in the run as guests of title partner Simplyhealth, helping people make the most of life through better everyday health
