Sportlink’s Heidi Bacon produced a strong run to claim victory in the women’s race at the Mike Groves 10K, race two of the 2026 Sportlink Grand Prix Series.
Bacon crossed the line in 42:58, finishing ahead of City of Norwich AC’s Tara Adams in 43:35, while Amy Wright of Norfolk Gazelles completed the podium in 43:35.
The race, organised by Coltishall Jaguars and starting and finishing at Wroxham Barns, attracted a strong field as runners looked to build early-season momentum in the Grand Prix Series.
A surprise win
Despite taking the win, Bacon admitted the result came as something of a surprise.
“It’s a bit of a surprise, but I’ll take it,” she said after crossing the finish line.
The Sportlink runner explained that she approached the race with a steady mindset rather than a specific plan.
“I just started off steady and built up every mile,” she said. “Conditions were perfect – no wind and not too hot – so it was a really good day for a run.”
Building towards a spring marathon
For Bacon, the Mike Groves 10K was primarily a chance to add some pace into her training as she prepares for a spring marathon.
“I don’t really have a plan,” she said. “I wasn’t even planning to race, but I’m hoping to do a marathon in April, so today was just about getting some pace in the legs between the really long runs.”
Her gradual increase in pace throughout the race saw her close down the leaders and eventually move into first place, something she hadn’t expected when she set off.
Reflecting on the race afterwards, she admitted it took determination to keep pushing in the closing stages.
“I spent about five miles gradually catching Tara and I wasn’t sure I would get there,” she said.
“When I caught her I was surprised but pleased to find out we were first and second. It was hard work pushing for the last mile or so, but with everyone cheering it really helped.”
A perfect morning for racing
Runners were greeted with excellent conditions at Wroxham Barns, with light winds and cool temperatures providing ideal racing weather.
Bacon also praised the course layout.
“It’s not hilly at all and pretty flat the whole way,” she said. “Luckily it wasn’t too muddy either after all the winter weather.”
The victory marks a memorable moment for the Sportlink runner, who joked that it had been a while since she had found herself doing a winner’s interview after a race.
With the Reedham Ten and Mike Groves 10K now completed, the Sportlink Grand Prix Series is beginning to take shape as runners across Norfolk chase points, personal bests and strong performances across the 12-race season.
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