Formula 5 Duathlon, 24 Apr 2021

My hardest race yet! This race was harder than any other I’ve done before. It consisted of 5km run, 20km cycle, 5km run, 20 km cycle and a 5km run. I was really excited to be back racing and to know where my fitness levels were. The morning was lovely and sunny but extremely cold and windy which I knew would be an issue on the bike route. I started the first 5km and felt pretty good and I managed to do a really good time. Jumped on the bike and set off on the first 20 km bike leg. The course is extremely hilly but I was feeling strong even with the headwind. I was slowly passing people and overall felt fit. Another 5 km run followed but I could start to feel my hip pulling which I was concerned with but I still felt it was a strong run. Back on the bike again! This bike leg felt very hard and this time I was really starting to struggle to keep a good pace. My hip was really hurting and the hills felt like mountains and it took all my stamina to keep going. Finally got back for the last run. I was determined to finish the race even though it was the slowest and hardest 5km I’ve ever done. Overall I was disappointed with my race but on reflection it was a stretch for me and I will never repeat the experience!!

Amy Woodroofe