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For many runners taking part in the Experian Robin Hood Festival of Running, just getting round the course will be enough. But there will be a significant group of you out there that have a target time in mind, or a new PB you want to reach, and to help you do this, for the half marathon, will be the New Balance pace makers.
The New Balance pace makers have been getting Nottingham runners round in their desired times for years now and this Sunday will be no exception. There will be five pacers running; spanning times from 90mins to 2hours 30mins.
Richard Hill has been a Notts half marathon pacer for the past three years and will be taking the 1 hour 45mins slot this time. He has run over 125 half marathons in his six year running career and has a few tips to help runners prepare for race day:
“Have a look through all the race details on the Saturday to make sure you know start times and drinks points.
“On race day don’t worry about getting up early, it happens to everyone. Make sure you eat what you are used to and sip water regularly, it is very easy to over hydrate by just having glasses of water.
“Make sure you arrive in lots of time before the race. I always warm up by walking the last mile of a race route. It gives you a feeling of comfort when you come to the end of the race as you know how close it is to the finish.
“When you start the race go at your own pace and find your own rhythm. You will see lots of people run past you at the start, but relax as there is no better feeling than running past lots of people at the end.
“And the main thing is have fun and enjoy the experience!”
Suze Moore, who is a member of Holme Pierrepont Running Club, will be taking runners aiming to complete the course within 2 hours 30mins round. Her top tips are:
“Make sure you drink plenty of water on Friday and Saturday so you are well hydrated. Have your usual breakfast about 2 hours before the start. When the race starts run steadily and try to keep to a pace you are used to. And finally, believe in yourself - you can do it!”
The other pacers are Simon Ledley for 2 hours 15mins, Paul Stacey for 2 hours and Nigel Cobb for 90mins. If you would like to meet up with them before the race starts they will be at the New Balance retail tent from about 9am until 9.30am. If you miss them there, they will be holding up red boards the start line that indicate their allocated time, so keep your eyes peeled! |
