Race Report: Chester 10k 8/3/26
It was a grand day out at the Chester 10k today — and for those of us mad enough, the first race of the Chester Triple (10k, Half Marathon, and Marathon).
For me, today wasn’t about my PB… it was about my brother’s, Brent.
Since I laced up my running shoes last August, he’s refused to be outdone by his big brother. So in January 2026 he set himself a challenge: couch to sub-1 hour 10k.
The Chester 10k is a fantastic event — brilliantly organised, well marshalled, and with a great energy from start to finish. The course isn’t quite as flat as you might expect for Cheshire, with long gradual drags and descents. Nothing compared to the “undulating” Carsington Water trails… but enough to keep you honest.
Then, just as you re-enter the city at about 9km, the course throws in a sting in the tail: a sharp 30m elevation climb. The crowds are roaring, the legs are wobbling, and you’re wondering whose idea this was.
But the final run through to the finish line is electric — packed with supporters, noise bouncing off the buildings, and that welcome sight of the clock.
My brother smashed his goal, we both crossed the line in 56:10, position 3063 of 7317. Not bad for someone who only started in January — and I suspect the running bug has well and truly bitten now.
As for me, I enjoyed settling into marathon pace and holding it comfortably and controlled — a good marker with 49 days to go until London. 
