A return to Brockwell ParkRun for the second consecutive week. I could make a habit out of this.

Although perhaps not, given my current life plans.

Once again I was reminded that I use to spend my Saturday mornings plodding around Brockwell Park, some THIRTY years ago.

Blimey.

Never change, Jase. Never change.

Having been boxed in at the start last week, I made sure that I was at the front of the pack for the start. I legged it down the first hill, and then waited for the inevitable overtaking.

I’m now familiar with the new-ish Brockwell route. I was able to pace myself. I thought I was on for a strong time.

The dive bombing parakeets caused a little concern for me for the uphill sprint finish. I pushed on.

My final time was one second faster than last week. I was fourth in my age cat once again.

#smallwins, etc.

The official result also told me that this was my fastest ParkRun time this year.

This may - or may not - be my final Brockwell ParkRun. I checked my time when I first ran the race that’s not a race over a decade ago. My timing today is up on that original run.

Like a fine wine, etc.

Chin chin.

A return to Brockwell ParkRun on Saturday morning. It’s been a while.

Much in the same way that Brixton Rec is my spiritual home of swimming, Brockwell is my zen place for ParkRun.

It’s where it all first started, and it’s probably where it will all finish, given those BASTARD hills.

But what a way to bow out, popping your clogs whilst running Brockwell ParkRun.

It’s been a cheery Saturday, Comrades…

It was lovely to see some familiar faces and old friends ahead of the 9am start for the race that’s not a race.

I was on time for once as well.

My forward planning involved a brief shifty at the Brockwell ParkRun FB page.

Ah, and so the start has been shifted up towards Brockwell Hall. There’s a new route as well.

I’m pleased that I took the time to take this on board. It takes ten minutes to walk up from the bicycle parking at the lovely Lido towards the big old Brockwell Hall.

A few brief ParkRun instructions, and then blimey - WE’RE OFF!

I know the park inside out, but the route itself I wasn’t sure of. No worries, Jase. There’s zero chance you’re going to actually be setting the pace throughout the 5km.

I was boxed in at the start, but then soon found my rhythm. There was no shame in a 50+ bloke being overtaken by a blushing Bride in her wedding white, probably half my age.

Good effort, Madam. Now get to that bloody Church on time.

The finish was uphill.

Oh ARSE. That took it out of me.

It was worth it though on a splendid Transpontine morning. I was rewarded with the view stretching out over to the City.

I was buzzing off me tits, natch.

The ParkRun email dropped an hour or so later. Fourth in my age cat. I’ll take that.

I’ll also try and not leave it as long next time.