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Brighton 10k

Sunday 20th November 2022

November in the sun - Freya Hughes

There’s nothing quite like a race on home turf. Especially when the new race HQ is soaked in November sunshine, and boasts views of the sparkling water, luscious lawns and classic Regency splendour. Brighton & Hove AC’s Brighton 10k, has been running since the 80s – a fast and flat route that dangles the tantalising sniff of a PB in front of the nose of its runners.

And team Phoenix had a cracking day of it. Coming in hot for the Phoenix men with 32:58 was William Goddard, while Kate Natkiel finished as first Phoenix female with an impressive 36:31. Within the race was a men’s, women’s and mixed county team event, featuring Kate, Bobby Searle (37:05) and Amy Harris (37:07). Fantastic effort, as usual!

As races go, a 10k can be a little treacherous. Too short to cruise at a comfortable pace, yet too long to sustain a leg-achingly fast one. Pacing oneself is key (something I for one struggle with immensely). As an excited buzz rose through the crowd, runners took their place at the start. Pacers for 40 minutes onward punctuating the sea of smiles and nervous bouncing.

Heading west from Brunswick Square, the familiar tussle for both pace and space made that first kilometre fly. Two right-hand turns took us safely out of the wind and on the path to Maderia Drive. The breeze behind us, we took advantage of the propulsion and raced towards the 5k (ish) turnpoint by Concorde 2.

You know when you turn into a gale that pushes you back a step? Well, it wasn’t quite that bad. But by the look of most runners’ positive splits, it wasn’t to be underestimated. It was challenging to say the least, but a final turn back down the prom meant the final sprint was euphorically smooth sailing.

My experience was fantastic – morning spent celebrating our seaside city in the sunshine with fellow Phoenix runners. And a PB to boot.

The Brighton 10K welcomes runners of all abilities – whether you’re a first timer, running for charity, or an experienced club runner chasing a PB you’ll enjoy a great morning of running along the iconic Brighton & Hove seaside. Would recommend!