These words of wisdom flew through my mind soon after the starting gun fired at the Brian Goodwin 10k in Pollok Park on Friday night. I'd chosen to start close to the front and immediately felt the blistering pace after sitting behind a desk all day.
We sprinted along by the stables, up past the mountain bike trails entrance and onto the long straight towards Pollok house. I could see the lead group of 8 - 10 guys disappear around a corner whilst the small group of Harriers and Roadrunners I was in jostled for space. I knew I would blow up at the current pace of 5:45 minute miles, so dropped it down a little heading onto Haggs Road at 3k tucking in behind an unaffiliated dude wearing all black. 
I failed to match his pace and the floodgates were now open being ovetaken by Bellahouston Harriers and Roadrunners for the next 2k. Edit: I met the runner afterwards, his name is Shazan Hakeen and finished in 16th in 36:40.
I managed to stem the flow at the sharp left turn at Cartha Rugby Club which marked the half way point and the start of another loop through the park. I was tired at this point but my spirits were lifted when I saw Rosie cheering me on at 6k.
I managed to maintain my speed and position for the final 4k knowing I was going to smash my previous PB of 38:45 but too weary to try and catch anyone at this point. I crossed the line 21st in 36:58, a pb to be proud of!
