Rockingham 10
By Tedlet
By Tedlet
So this is a circuit in the UK that you only get access to as a runner once a year! -The Rockingham Motor Speedway Circuit.
Obviously I recognise that this event is primarily aimed at those of us at the shorter distance end of the running spectrum, but having run it for the first time this weekend I thought I'd give it a mention.
This was only my second 10k race (I'd enjoyed my first one a few weeks prior to this and very quickly then looked for a follow up that I thought would be ok to run barefoot).
The Rockingham racing circuit is apparently known for being a fast course (both for cars & runners I believe). Like most racing venues it occupies a vast expanse of land which means two things: firstly there's not too much lengthy undulation going on (although there are a couple of small inclines to deal with); and secondly it can get very cold & windy.
The race organisers take over the pit lane garages for the day & use them as the race village (registration & catering, etc...). This works extremely well as the available shelter from a biting November wind is certainly welcome amongst the runners.
There are three organised events: 5k, 10k & 10 miles. I ran the 10k &, and as far as I could see, I was the only barefooter (my partner ran with me in VFFs. This is the only pic I could find with at least part of each of us in it together (well at least you can see a foot each!...)
The events were generally well organised with plenty of volunteers and marshalls on hand throughout the day.
The track itself doesn't feel at all overcrowded as, being a racing circuit, it has plenty of width -so you don't feel boxed in or blocked at any point.
The race follows the full course (2 laps for the 10k) using the pit lane at the end of each lap. The surface is consequently about 95% smooth tarmac and 5% smooth concrete in the pit area -i.e. extremely barefoot friendly. If you're looking for a first race at 5k or 10k distance to do barefoot this could well be the one for you!
Over all good organisation, barefoot friendly & the bling wasn't too bad either...
This is a link to the race site this year http://www.sbrevents.co.uk/events/rockingham10-2017