What a day!

4 goodgymmers from Liverpool made their way under the tunnel, across the border and through the valleys to beautiful Barmouth, ready for the Barmouth 10k.

When Sally Ann first floated the idea of running this race together on her birthday, superwoman Heetu signed up without hesitation. Bekah - who had only recently got comfortable with a 5k - took some convincing, but Sallyann was so adamant Bekah could do it that she started to believe it. After a brief consideration, Liam reckoned he'd give it a go. And so a plan was formed.

We headed to Barmouth the night before, to carb up and ensure we were well rested for the 11am start time. The British weather was typically erratic, with blaring sunshine, coastal winds, and ferocious rain in the run up to the race. Sadly due to injury Sally Ann was unable to run the race, but being the selfless and inspiring supporter that she is, she took to the role of chief cheerleader with gusto and dedicated herself to motivating and celebrating the three runners. Nobody's training plan had quite panned out as expected, and there was some trepidation as we headed towards the start line, confident only that we should position ourselves near the back! The race started with sunshine breaking through the clouds and a good sea breeze. The route is up a short incline, down and over the Barmouth bridge, then along a track following the estuary, before a turning point at 5k to head back.

Around half way through the run, a light drizzle started. Then it rained. Then it poured. At one point the rain was hammering down, but the runners weren't to be deterred. By far one of the most challenging parts of the run is the steep "hill of doom" at 9.5k coming off the bridge. Sally Ann positioned herself just before the final corner, after the hill, and reported three massive smiles as she cheered us on the final straight.

We finished absolutely drenched but euphoric at the achievement. Heetu - an excellent runner, though she'll never admit it - had thoroughly enjoyed the scenery, managing to look up, take it all in and attempt to run alongside the train she was delighted to spot. Liam, a solid runner who jumps into these things with little prep and always manages to pull them off, made excellent time and managed to navigate the rain, mud and slippery bridge like a pro. Bekah was absolutely delighted to complete her first 10k without stopping; having gone from being unable to run a 5k without intermittent walking, completing 10k was a huge achievement. Sally Ann was overcome with pride for everyone achieving their goals, and spirits soared as we met with medals and lovely teal 10k t-shirts at the finish line.

The team had surprised Sally Ann with cards, cake and lovely gifts that morning, and we had a champagne toast before a lovely dinner showcasing the best of Welsh local cuisine. We each left feeling thoroughly rejuvenated from a wonderful weekend celebrating hard work, dedication, support and friendship. Well done guys, huge round of applause to each of you.