NYMAC 1 mile relay, 25 May 2023

Time for the first of two summer relay events held at Stewart’s Park in Middlesborough, the route is a one-mile lap on tarmac paths around the park and is organised by North York Moors Athletic Club (NYMAC).

There was the usual chaos at the start as all categories start at the same time and fight their way to the front. As a second leg runner, I stayed near the start line, trying to predict when my team-mate would appear through the trees. The other second leg runners were also scrabbling to the handover section to see if their first leg runner was coming. The organisers shout out numbers and club names but you need to keep an eye out as well so that you’re ready.

I saw my team-mate coming and quickly jumped out to the start line, holding my hand out for the baton. The handover went smoothly and I set off, the first part was down hill, making for a fast start but then became flat with some sharp turns, before a fairly steep hill to the finish.

A mile doesn’t sound far but when you’re trying to go as fast as you can, it seems to go on forever! The hill at the end is a killer as well and it’s where all the spectators are positioned so you have to put your all in!

Our team came second out of 11 in our category and I had the fastest women’s leg for my club with 5:53, a 5 second pb from last year!

Sarah Hunter