Headington 5 Report by Andy Pike
Having run for Headington Road Runners for around 8 years in a previous life, I always like to participate in and support their run each year.
This allows me to catch up with several of Headington’s club members, many of whom have been on the running circuit for many years and have also become friends. After a good laugh, joke, and bit of banter (about what colour vest I am running in now), we approach the start line for a prompt Sunday 9.30 am start.
The race itself is a fairly flat and fast five-mile loop, that starts in Boults Lane recreation ground and runs towards Summertown. It then passes Summertown by on the safe back lanes, entering Marston Ferry road and finishing at where we started.
At age 55 now, I always like to use the race as a bit of a benchmark and so currently aim for a sub 7-minute mile. So after crossing the line at an average pace of 6 mins 57 seconds, I happily accept this with a small smile of satisfaction. Now looking forward to Headington 2024!
