Reading Half Marathon 2013 (photos and thoughts)

I ran the Reading Half Marathon yesterday.

This was the weather forecast:

Reading Half Marathon 2013 weather forecast

...and it wasn't wrong!

Waiting at the start line it was very very wet.  There was some kind of stoic humour in this though.  Hundreds of people modelling assorted outfits made from bin bags and plastic carrier bags, groups of men sheltering in the temporary toilet block, whilst others, oblivious to the weather, jumped and waved their arms as part of the mass warm up.

The Reading Half Marathon 2013 began, everyone stripped off / ripped off their plastic over outfits and set off around the streets of Reading.  Shortly after starting the race it stopped raining (for a bit) and along the whole route there was great support from well wishers and people supporting their families, through to more organised support outside pubs, churches etc.  The drummers and bands were good fun too (brass section outside the school was a nice touch...)

Enjoyed seeing that there was a pub offering beer to runners - especially when a runner dressed as Spiderman stopped to sample a few...

I didn't see them but saw the photo afterwards of the runners raising money for the RNLI by dressing as the Jamaican Bobsled team - great effort!:

Reading Half Marathon Jamaica bobsled team

The rain decided to start again before the end though (the main road / dual carriageway leading back to the stadium was tough in the wind and rain), but managed to make it back to the Madjeski stadium in time for a great finish in front of the crowds.

I was surprised to get a PB (1.48:31) and in spite of getting very wet I enjoyed myself - and really feel like I earnt my medal!

Reading Half Marathon 2013 medal

Think this race would be really good if the sun was out!  Maybe next year I'll do it again and the weather will be kinder...