This 5k PARKRUN was a SHOT at REDEMPTION! - Alvaston, Derby

Alvaston Parkrun in South East Derby was established in May 2019 and takes place in the village's Park. It's a popular course attracting an average of 223 runners each week.
I chose Alvaston this week as it ranks amongst the top 5% of Parkrun's in the UK for how fast the course is (based on the Power of 10 Rankings) and I wanted to again attempt to see what kind of times I am capable of, after having a really rough week last week in tricky conditions in Beeston.
Despite feeling quite leggy prior to the run, things went much better for me today. I wanted to push the pace to 'almost' but not quite my maximum effort and try and maintain this for the full 5km. Conditions today were perfect with temperatures around 5-6 degrees, no wind, and clear blue skies.
Facilities here were good, we had free parking at the Derby Homes car park (free until 10:30) and there were toilets that opened soon after we arrived in the community building at the start. There is a cafe within the community building which opened at 9am.
#running #parkrun #run
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[@markg99]

Nicely done! I haven't seen many courses flatter than that. Seems ideal.

[@RunSDJ]

I think Long Eaton is on par, but that aside this is definitely the flattest route, combined with fully tarmac paths the whole way, ideal for speedier times.

[@61js]

Nice little confidence booster.

[@RunSDJ]

Absolutely was. It felt like it had been a long time coming.

[@runstokesrun]

Another one of my locals, very fast course!

[@RunSDJ]

Yes it is! I think only the 3 x 180 degree turns probably stop it from being event quicker, and perhaps the start line, it can be a bit narrow and congested which might cost some time as the pack of runners shuffle and get in position.

[@aminemelaine2740]

Great run! Good luck for the PB attempt. Are you attempting it at a Parkrun?

[@RunSDJ]

Thanks. Yes. Hoping to do I it at one of my locals in Leicester as I want extra time to prepare etc, rather than an hour drive or whatever that some of the ones I travel to as a tourist are.

[@georgehood01]

Long Eaton parkrun is really fast if you are still looking for fast courses nearby

[@RunSDJ]

Thanks George. I did Long Eaton earlier in 2023. Got a new 5k PB (at the time) there. Great course, so long as the weather has been kind.

[@georgehood01]

Indeed! I think it is underwater currently though.@@RunSDJ