Full Send at Parkrun: A Reality Check at 68

What happens when you go full send at Parkrun… without the speed work? At 68, training for marathon #50, I decided it was time for a reality check. Could I still break 20 minutes for 5 km — something I haven’t done in over a decade? This episode is in two parts. First, a controlled track session with fast company, where restraint, consistency, and not getting carried away are the real lessons. Then, a no-excuses Parkrun effort: 100% commitment, no bailing, and an honest answer to the question — can endurance alone deliver speed? There’s frustration, perspective, and a few hard truths about aging, training balance, and why “full send” doesn’t always mean smart send. Takeaways from this episode: Why speed doesn’t magically appear without specific training The danger of ego when fitness is improving How consistency beats hero workouts — especially as we get older Why effort still matters, even when the goal slips away This is marathon training, masters running, and Parkrun racing — warts and all. If you’re chasing speed later in life, trying to balance endurance and intensity, or just here to enjoy my running journey, welcome. TRT Running https://www.trtrunning.com/ Namban Rengo https://namban.org/ And if you're interested in my car channel, please pop on by. New cars, EVs, classic, sports, supercars, racing cars, exotica, quirky cars. Proper reviews on real roads with real drivers. inCARnation Australia    / incarnationaustralia