Paula In Rich Form At French Riviera

13 DEC2011

Paula Radcliffe set a new course record at the 17th Cursa de Natale in Monaco on Sunday (December 11) . The British runner, resident of the municipality in which the event took place, was first female and fourth overall in the 10k run with a strong time of 32:05.

Paula, last week selected alongside Scott Overall and Mara Yamauchi to represent Team GB at London 2012, slashed more than a minute off the previous course record.

Indeed, the 37-year-old later admitted that she only decided to take part in the race at the last minute: "It was just a spur of the moment decision to run as I had just got back from a Kenyan training camp last week."

While the course in Monaco is known for being challenging with several hills, the British runner said her recent altitude training meant she was well prepared. Paula added: "Although I wasn't feeling very sharp the three climbs on the Monaco course felt really easy because of Kenya. Its fun to run at home, and to go with family for pancakes afterwards!"