PRESS RELEASES FOR 2010

 Reindeer Run, Full Monty-Cute (05/12/2010)

The Reindeer Run at Otterton has become a good fun fixture on the local running calendar. It is a scenic route heading out to the coastal hills beyond the village and then turning back along the Otter Valley, before a final mad dash down to the village green. Some take it seriously and gallop round the course like.... well like reindeers, but the abundance of Santa hats, tinsel and costumes show that most runners are just out for some Christmas fun. As well as the 148 adults who did the 6 mile main run there was a tremendous turnout of about 130 young runners below the age of 17 who, together with some 50 adults, ran the 3K Fun Run. All the runners start together with the first 500yds uphill. John Burgess set off smartly but was soon puffing and gasping on the hill and was easily out-paced by a small girl and several other youngsters who skipped effortlessly past him and shot away into the distance. Fortunately this humiliating state of affairs came to an end after half-a-mile where the two routes separated. The Fun Run was won by Zac Francis of Sidmouth Running Club in the excellent time of 13:56. The first girl, Maya Elston, was also from Sidmouth RC and she finished 6th overall in 15:35. Honiton Running Club’s sole representative was Brendon Campbell, running his first race for the club. He did very well coming in 16th in a time of 16:53 and 6th U12 Boy. There were 187 finishers.

Six Honiton RC adults tackled the main course and were led home by Paul Davey who had a good run but perhaps not as quick as he would have liked. Julie Payne after a great run at Bicton last week put in another good performance and came in 7th lady. Having been beaten by each of the two Nicks in the club in recent events John was expecting to be overtaken at some point on the course but put in a determined run and managed to hold off the challenge. Nick Bradley-Carter had John in his sights all the way round and was catching him on the hills but losing him on the descents and finally coming in a minute behind him . It was the turn of Nick Thorpe to fall in a race, but sensibly it was in a soft grassy field so he only suffered wounded pride. Having overtaken John in the last 100yds at Bicton last week Nick was hoping for a repeat performance but the shorter race was to John’s advantage and Nick had to settle for 5th place in the Honiton pack. Warren Oak enjoyed wading up to his waist last year so was disappointed to find the course much drier, but he still enjoyed the fun and can be pleased with his performance. The race was won by Nic Smith in 41:41 and first lady was Lyn Lascelles of Maiden Newton in 44:16. All 148 finishers were presented with commemorative mugs, which were quickly in use at the village hall where mulled wine and mince pies made a fitting end to the event.

Honiton Results
Paul Davey, 00:45:47, 26th: Julie Payne, 00:49:58, 46th : John Burgess, 00:51:40, 57th : Nick Bradley-Carter, 0:52:41, 62nd Nick Thorpe, 00:53:14, 64th Warren Oak, 00:54:44, 67th

Six Honiton Running Club runners lined up for the start of the Full Monty-cute based at Ham Hill Country Park in Somerset. This trail race is slightly more than 10 miles and is organised by Crewkerne Running Club. It is extremely popular and sells out months before the event takes place. Organisers boast 10 challenging hills and a few more insignificant ones thrown for good measure. Conditions were taxing with plenty of ice on the ground and where the temperature had risen; plenty of equally slippery mud. This is usually a race that offers magnificent views but in some places it was so misty, it was hard enough watching where you were placing your own feet. Nevertheless, the sun struggled to come through and at times it felt almost warm. 

Bruce Strawbridge didn’t feel great at the start of the race and decided that the most sensible option was to pull out after he had completed about ½ mile. This meant that Richard Harris was first back for Honiton having obtained the number from another Honiton member just before the race. This confused organisers and he was nearly awarded 1st lady! Despite this, he had a great race finishing in 46th place in 1:33:21 well ahead of Steve Davey who was next home in 56th place and 1:35:46. Steve’s wife Judy followed and although she felt she could have run faster, she was delighted and surprised to find she had won her category taking home a bottle of wine and a ‘Piece of the Hill’ in the form of a stone from Ham Hill. She also managed a spot prize giving her free entry to next year’s race. She was 93rd in 1:42:08. Simon Hall came in next in 157th place and a time of 1:54:55 followed by Claire Pomeroy in 196th place and 2:06:16. All finishers were given a well deserved seasonal gift of a Christmas Pudding as they crossed the line. There were 230 runners.

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Bicton Blister/Lite, Newcastle Half (29/11/2010)

On a bitterly cold day last Sunday, 12 Honiton runners set off for Bicton College to take part in Exmouth Harriers’ Bicton Blister or Bicton Lite races. Temperatures had managed to get down to minus 50 first thing in the morning and there was still a scattering of snow left over from a snow shower earlier in the week. The temperature was still well below zero as the race began and Honiton runners spotted only two foolhardy racers dressed in shorts and a racing vest and they were not from Honiton! Most took the more sensible option of covering every possible bit of skin and the major decision to be made was whether to wear 2, 3 or, if you are called John, even 4 layers. 

The Bicton Blister is approximately 10 miles and begins on the road with most of the route being on the pebbled heaths of Bicton and the very exposed Woodbury Common. It’s becoming a bit of a habit and once again Bruce Strawbridge was first back for Honiton in 57th place with a time of 1:17:41. Ceri Oak was next in coming 4th lady overall and 1st in her age category. She finished in 80th place with a time of 1:20:10. The next trio came in after a close battle for the final order. Richard Harris just about triumphed finishing in 99th place in 1:22:53. Richard definitely won the prize for best fashion accessory sporting a beautiful alpaca woolly hat – he could have made a fortune if he was willing to sell it. Steve Davey finished just 6 seconds and 2 places behind Richard. Steve has chased him up the final stretch but, although completely done in, Richard managed to hold the lead. Steve had also become aware that Vernon Gillard was not far behind and admitted that had he not been chasing Richard, Vernon may well have caught him. Vernon was 107th in 1:23:18. 

Next home was Roger Saunders who had a good race coming 132nd in 1:26:09 just managing to keep ahead of Julie Payne. It was Julie’s first time of running the Blister and she found it tough but ran really well to finish one place behind Roger and 4 seconds later. Judy Davey was next back and although slower than the previous year, she was taking consolation in the fact that the course was longer. She came 169th in 1:29:48. Nick Thorpe has almost got back to his good level of running fitness and managed to pip John Burgess over the finish line. Nick was 208th in 1:33:20 with John one place and 4 seconds behind. Sandra Thorpe completed the Blister line up for Honiton coming 344th in 1:54:32. There were 369 runners.

Tracey Strawbridge hasn’t been running too much recently and decided to compete in the Bicton Lite which is a shortened version of the Blister of about 4.5 miles. Tracey was pleased with her race especially because she could get back into the warm well before any of her club mates and pick a tee shirt of the correct size! She came 54th in 51:51 out of 80 runners. 

In equally chilly conditions (or maybe even chillier), Steve Boyes ran in the Newcastle Marathon. Steve felt a tad dizzy after the 5 Laps and his feet were like two ice bergs but that stopped him falling over at the finish! He was pleased with his time of 3:30:24 although the winner completed it in 2:46.He was 30th out of 144 finishers and felt it was worth the long drive because he managed to visit his Mum and Dad at the same time.

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Colyton 5, Castle Drogo 10,  (21/11/2010)

It was a fine but chilly morning at Colyton for the Children in Need 5 mile and Fun Run last Sunday. There was the usual friendly atmosphere with lots of runners in fancy dress. The event is organised by Axe Valley Runners and all the proceeds go to Children in Need. The Honiton Running Club contingent was a bit reduced because of the race at Castle Drogo but there were still 10 adults and 3 juniors. Tom Bornett was doing his first race since joining the club and went off strongly. Following behind were Julie Payne and Nick Bradley-Carter who were soon into a ding-dong battle with first one then the other leading. Once they got into the second lap Julie pulled away and she soon passed Tom as well. Nick also caught Tom and managed to get past him before the line although they were given identical times. Nick has been getting quicker throughout the year and was delighted with his time. Next home was Greg Axsel who also found the route to his liking and he was able to get the better of John Burgess who had run with him for most of the first two miles. John is still missing 3 front teeth from his fall at Yarcombe two weeks ago so had lots of sympathy from fellow runners. Thankfully he managed to stay on his feet this time. Tony Whiteley was taking part in an event again after a few weeks away from the racing scene and was pleased to be back. Simon Hall and Claire Pomeroy would have preferred the cross-country terrain at Castle Drogo but had to settle for a shorter work-out along the roads of Colyton. Kelly Allison only joined the club a few months ago and this was her first race. She paced herself well and enjoyed the experience. Wendy Williams is also new to the club this year and deliberately started slowly. She found it tough but was delighted to complete the course. The race was won by Ashley Humphreys in a time of 26:52. 1st lady was Anna Allen in a time of32:21. There were 138 runners. After the race there were lots of cakes and hot drinks with more donations invited for Children in Need. 

Honiton RC results: 38th Julie 35:37, 39th Nick 36:39, 40th Tom 36:39, 44th Greg 37:09, 48th John 38:11, 55th Simon 39:21, 75th Claire 40:39, 84th Tony 42:34, 94th Kelly 43:43 and 125th Wendy 51:01

In the junior race the winner was Matt Morbey of Axe Valley Runners in a time of 16:10. Reuben Heeler-Frood had a great run and finished 4th in 16:52. Ian Ross found it cold but was very pleased to pass lots of adults and he put in a good sprint at the end and finished 10th in 18:03. Harry Whitely didn’t feel at his best but he still managed to finish in 19th place in 18:35.

Meanwhile, 5 Honiton runners took part in the Castle Drogo 10 mile off road race. This is a tough race with 1760ft of climb. The course starts at the Castle and after a short run along the drive; runners are directed down a very steep, slippery path which caused quite a lot of congestion. Runners were further held up after about a mile as they crossed a bridge over the River Teign. After negotiating this, the course opens out and there is a long steep uphill near Fingle Bridge. There are stunning views of the Teign Valley and eventually runners are taken back alongside the river to Fingle Bridge again before ascending the famous calf busting Hunters’ Path which no runner will forget as it is so long and steep. The race has a sting in the tail right at the end in the form of some steep steps.

James McMullan of Thames Hare and Hounds won the race in the record breaking time of 58:29. He won £50 as he was the first person to break the hour barrier on this particular course. His team mate John McFarlance was 2nd also breaking the 1 hour barrier. Bruce Strawbridge was very convincingly first back for Honiton in 83rd place and a time of 1:19:10. This completed a hat trick of victories over Steve Davey who was next home in 112th and 1:22:14. Richard Harris hasn’t raced recently and his only training has been running up and down his fields whilst tending to his alpacas. He came 135th in 1:24:10. This was Roger Saunders first race since the summer and the first time he had run the Drogo. Like everyone else, he found it tough but was pleased with his 183rd place and 1:28:05 time. Judy Davey came both first and last lady for Honiton in 213th place in 1:31:02. There were a record number of entries with 574 finishers recorded.

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The Yor4kshire 3 Peaks Challenge, Ilminster 10k (14/11/2010)

BOGS, BANANAS AND BIG BIG MOUNTAINS.

On the 30th of October, twelve doughty members of the Honiton Running Club took on the formidable Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.

The Three Peaks Challenge is to navigate around a challenging 27 mile circuit of Yorkshire moorland, including climbing Pen-y-Ghent (2260 ft.), Whernside (2381 ft.) and Ingleborough (2365 ft.), and moreover, completing the challenge in under 12 hours. The twelve who started the day out as the Clean Dozen but ended it as the Dirty Dozen, were; Jo and Paul Lowman, Sarah “Bananas” Lowman, Jacqueline and Denis Costello, Maggie Dillon, Gerry Evans, Brenda King, Sue Jones, Allison Guest, Claire Melbourne and Pete Lyus.

Tired but elated, they not only met the Challenge but beat it by completing it in 10 hours forty minutes. In the bar afterwards, all agreed (rather merrily) that it is not a challenge for wimps. 

Last Sunday saw the running of Ilminster Lions Club 10k which has a reputation for being a fairly flat course. Milan Goc of Sidmouth Running Club won the race in a time of 37:12. Maria Wadey was first back for Honiton after completing in the Yarcombe Yomp the day before. She was 89th in 46:49. Nick Bradley-Carter was next in 94th place and 46:57. 
Other Honiton runners were; 114th Nick Thorpe 48:51, 129th Simon Hall 49:34, 132nd Sarah Warren 49:37, 150th Claire Pomeroy 51:28, 201st Sandra Thorpe 56:09 and 233rd Rod Warren 58:25. There were 279 runners.

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Yarcombe Yomp, (07/11/2010)

Honiton runners did not have to travel too far for last Saturday’s Yarcombe Yomp race which meant that the Club was well represented. The race consists of 2 laps of 5 miles with plenty of slippery mud and cow deposits on route. The race was won by Alex Todd of Axe Valley Runners in a time of 1:07:43. Bruce Strawbridge was 1st in for Honiton winning the ongoing battle on this occasion with Steve Davey. Bruce was 14th in 1:21:20 and Steve was 18th in 1:23:31. Ceri Oak has been training hard and had a great race; coming 3rd lady and just one place and 25 seconds after Steve. Vernon Gillard surprised his club mates by turning out for the event as off road is not usually his thing and the Yomp has only a short stretch of road and that is up a steep incline. He was next back in 21st place in a time of 1:24:44. Judy Davey was next back after a disappointing run in 27th place and 1:32:26. Greg Axsel had followed her for a few miles but as Judy had kept running up the fields when Greg had taken the walking option, she gradually pulled away. He finished in 31st place in 1:35:02.

This was only the 3rd running of this race and John Burgess has a history of falling on the course as he has hit the ground during both previous races. He began the race with the idea of taking it gently and he even took his camera to take photos of the amazing views. Luckily he had given his camera to a marshal at the start of the 2nd lap before managing to fall over again, only this time with more dramatic results. He managed to knock some teeth out, cutting his lip badly and sustaining several other more minor injuries. He did pick himself up and continue with the race to the finish where he was treated by St John’s Ambulance crew. He was then directed to hospital where he had 4 stitches to his lip. He was extremely disappointed to miss out on the homemade soup and cakes which as usual were delicious. Amazingly, he still managed 37th place in a time of exactly 1:39. There were 48 runners. 

Runners have the choice of completing just one lap and Tracey Strawbridge took up this option. She completed in 1:03:09 and was 10th out of 19 runners. Amongst others, she raced against a group of ladies on a hen weekend in fancy dress all the way from London. 

This race was the last in the Axe Valley Runners Race Series for 2010 which consisted on 6 local independent races and is scored by using runners age graded results – the older you are, the less you have to do! The team result was very close but Honiton Running Club was the overall winner followed by AVR in 2nd place and Sidmouth RC in 3rd. Garry Perratt of AVR was the individual winner.

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The Stickler, Snowdon Marathon  (01/11/2010)

The Stickler, also known as the Dorset 3 Peaks Challenge, is a 10.1 mile multi terrain running race with over 1500ft of gruelling climbing, beginning with the infamous ’Stickle Path’. Starting from the village of Shillingstone, near Blandford, the runners ascend three locally renowned peaks along the beautiful Stour Valley: Okeford Beacon, Hod Hill and Hambledon Hill. Last Sunday, Ceri Oak and John Burgess were the only two Honiton runners brave enough or insane enough to take on the challenge. But this is popular event and over 400 runners lined up at the start. Ceri rarely runs road races but muddy tracks and hills are right up her street, so to speak. She has been putting in some hard training recently and her efforts were well rewarded on The Stickler. She romped round the course in the excellent time of 1:24:14, coming in 68th and 5th lady. She was very pleased with her run but reckons she needs more hill training. For John it was not quite so good. He had a good run round the course last year but he knew he wasn’t going very well this time when he was overtaken at 7 miles by a runner with a small dog on a lead. The dog’s legs were so short that it had to leap over tufts of grass. After slogging his way up a steep hill a friendly marshal told him that there were 27 young female runners in front of him. 40 years ago this might have made him up his speed, but he simply replied that he would wait for the next one to catch him up. John finished over 6 minutes slower this year in a time of 1:39:31. 

Steve Boyes and Paul Davey ran the Snowdon Marathon last Saturday although they didn’t see each other. There were over 2000 runners after all. It was very wet and slippery underfoot and they even had hail! Paul finished in 3:34:39 and 169th place overall and 37th in +40 category. Steve was 10 mins behind in 3:44:55 making him 261st overall and 18th in +50 category. Steve reported that he found it a great event though with the potential for killing yourself. He said it felt like 5 marathons in 5 days wrapped into one day. Definitely one to run again but certainly not a personal best time course.

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Salisbury Half, Exmoor Stagger (24/10/2010)

Nick Bradley-Carter ran the Salisbury half-marathon last Sunday in lovely weather and a beautiful scenic route along the Avon valley. He finished 225th in 1:55:20 which he was quite happy with considering he had done virtually no training for it.

Paul Davey was ecstatic after his running of the Cardiff Half Marathon last week. Although he has been training for the Snowdonia Marathon, he had become a little disheartened with his running. He has found that it used to be a lot easier to turn that pie and pint away but of late it's been a struggle so he was extremely surprised and elated when he knocked two minutes plus off his half marathon time. He started off much faster than usual and after a few miles thought he had overcooked it but as he felt alright he continued at that pace. He had a twinge of a stitch at the nine mile mark but overcame that and carried on. His slowest mile was 6 minutes 32 seconds and he crossed the line in 1.23.09. To say he was happy was an understatement and it didn’t matter that he had lost his wife and had to pay £16.00 for parking. Nick and Sandra Thorpe also did the Cardiff Half. They felt that although it was a lovely flat, fast course starting and finishing in Cardiff Bay the 15000 entries meant that the first 5/6 miles were very crowded especially as some of the roads/tracks were quite narrow. Nick finished in 1.50.59 and Sandra in 2.10.45. Both pleased with their runs but felt they would have been quite a bit quicker will less people.

Steve & Judy Davey and Bruce Strawbridge travelled to Minehead to take part in Minehead Running Club’s Exmoor Stagger. This is a tough, mainly off road course, involving lots of climb as it takes runners all the way up to Dunkery Beacon (the highest point on Exmoor at 1702ft) and back. The total ascent of the course is 3627 ft. The winner was James Baker of Chichester Runners who completed in a time of 1:47:20. Bruce was delighted to be first back for Honiton beating Steve and Judy by 10 minutes. He finished in 56th place in 2:29:49. Steve found the race very tough and slowed down considerably during the last 6 miles. Judy caught sight of him with 2 ½ miles to go but Steve kept going and finished ahead of her in 93rd place and 2:39:13 Judy finished just 3 places later also in 2:39 and just 41 seconds behind her husband.

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Pitts Wood 10k, Perrat Trail Relay (19/10/2010)

Simon Hall and Claire Pomeroy were well out of their catchment area last Sunday when they flew the flag for Honiton Running Club in Kent. They did the Pitts Wood 10k multi-terrain race. Simon finished in 224th place with a time of 51:31 and Claire finished 313th in 54:30. Both times slower than usual mainly due to the terrain but the late night the previous day could have had something to do with it. There were 674 finishers.

On the same day, Julie Payne wore her Honiton Running Club vest for the first time in her inaugural race for the Club when she took part in the Eden Half Marathon. As the name suggests, the route takes runners around the surrounding area of the Eden Project in Cornwall. This was the 2nd running of the marathon and the half and saw a world record broken in the marathon with Adam Holland, a 23-year-old runner from Tavistock becoming the youngest person to run 100 marathons. The route for both events is hilly and a mixture of off road and road so personal best times are not expected. Julie finished in 1:47 and won a bottle of wine for coming 2nd in her age group. She was 118th out of 859 runners.

Last Saturday, Honiton runners formed a mixed team to take part in Crewkerne Running Club’s Parrett Trail Relay in aid of Cancer Research. This race follows the River Parrett from its mouth in Steart Point near Bridgwater to the source at Chedington and is a total of 48 miles run in 6 legs. The shortest leg being just over 5 ½ miles and the longest 9 ½ miles. 26 teams took part in perfect weather conditions. Exmouth Harriers won both the ladies’ and men’s team prizes with Chard Road Runners taking the mixed prize. The overall winning team completed in 5 hours 24 minutes. Honiton members are not used to running on flat terrain but they were delighted to manage 2nd place in the mixed category taking a total of 6 hours 24 minutes. The team was 9th overall. Honiton runners were; John Burgess, Warren Oak, Julie Payne, Judy Davey, Fran Bond and Brian Charters.

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Luberon Half & 10k, Taunton 10k & Clarendon Marathon (09/10/2010)

Last weekend 19 runners and supporters from Honiton Running Club travelled to Provence to take part in the Luberon Half Marathon and 10k.
Starting in Pertuis, a town near Aix-en-Provence, the undulating route took runners through quiet country lanes and vineyard tracks before finishing next to a ruined chateau in la Tour d’Aigues. Along the route were the usual selection of water stations, only the French do things a little differently. Yes, there was water to re-hydrate thirsty runners, but unusually there was also a variety of local produce ranging from chocolate to a glass (or more) of wine! Not that the Honiton contingent needed any more wine; they were soon to find out that 3 days of French excesses do not help with athletic prowess.
The 10k race started first, with Jackie Costello leading the Honiton runners and finishing in 60.03. Jackie ran most of the race with Rod Warren, who finished just 9 seconds later. Tour organiser Alison Guest was next home in 62.56 followed by Pat Croucher in 69.19.
Just half an hour later the Half Marathon got underway. By now the temperature had reached 25°C, a little warmer than Honiton at this time of the year. The heat combined with far from ideal preparation saw the Honiton runners enjoying, if that’s the word, slower than usual runs. Nearly all finishing some 10 minutes slower than expected. Even the normally speedy Julian Gigg was interspersing running with walking by 7km, finally finishing in a personal worst time of 1.42.20. Julian was followed by Sarah Warren in 1.54.58. Club Chairman John Burgess finished next in 1.57.01. Other finishers were Nick Thorpe 1.58.06, Denis Costello 2.08.57, Alan Nichols 2.12.21, Pete Lyus 2.17.47, Sandra Thorpe 2.21.26, Jo Davey 2.21.49, Gerry Evans 2.24.43 and Vanessa Glyn Jones in 2.27.09.
Special mention must go to Brenda King, who was running for her first claim club Chiltern Harriers. She finished in 2.04.19, fourth place in her category. After the race Brenda revealed that the Chiltern runners hadn’t touched a drop of alcohol since their arrival in France. A lesson to us all we thought! 

Elsewhere, on more local ground, a beautiful sunny September morning saw two Honiton runners travelling to Taunton to take part in the 24th Deane DLO Taunton 10km. A full field of 650 runners ran the relatively flat route through residential streets and beautiful countryside of Stoke St Mary and Haydon. First in was Nick Bradley-Carter in 194th place with a great time of 48.47. He was pleased as he hasn’t been running for 3 weeks due to injury. Olivia Higginson followed in 347th place. She had a great run and a personal best with a time of 55.09.

Steve Boyes and Kevin Hawker took part in the Clarendon Marathon. This is a fairly hilly multi-terrain course so Steve was pleased to complete it in just under 4 hours (3:58:59) having only fallen over once! He still had marathon legs from completing the New Forest Marathon the previous weekend so this was a great result. He was 5th in his category and 90th overall. Kevin Hawker did well and finished in 8th position overall in 3:16:05.

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Trickey Warren 10k, Collywobble & New Forrest Marathon (26/09/2010)

Last week 5 Honiton runners took part in the Trickey Warren 10k race at Culmhead Airfield which is put on to raise money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. The charity’s only income is from fundraising and donations. Runners could also choose to take part in the 2k Fun Run or 4k race. Organisers were delighted with entry levels, particularly for the shorter distance races with 51 taking part in the 2k and 40 taking part in the 4k. 

Richard Harvey was first in for Honiton finishing 7th in a time of 39:13 closely followed one place later by Steve Davey in 39:26. Both were delighted to have completed a 10k race in less than 40 minutes until they realised that they had only run about 5.3 miles meaning they ran almost a mile short of 10k. Ceri Oak was next back finishing 11th overall and 2nd lady winning a voucher for her efforts. She finished in 40:17. John Burgess had a great run even though he had been complaining about a tight calf before the race. He was next home in 43:13 and 19th place having overtaken Judy Davey about a mile before the finish. Judy finished in 43:30 one place behind John. Brent Dicks completed the 10k Honiton runners completing in a time of 46:41 and 28th place. There were 47 runners. Incredibly, the overall race winner was Rowan Preece of Taunton Athletics Club in a time of 34:28 who at only 15 is a clearly a very talented athlete. 

Sam Urquhart took part in the 4k race and not feeling great throughout the run meant that he was disappointed with his time and position. Nevertheless he still managed 4th place in 17:28.

Four Honiton members joined Axe Valley Runners on Sunday for the Colywobble. This is a social run of just over 10 miles organised by AVR. It starts at the source of the River Coly near Honiton Golf Course and follows the river to the end at Axmouth. No-one took too much notice of where if officially ended as the lure of what was on offer at the Harbour Inn was too strong. Thanks to AVR for organising the event and for great company too.

On the same day, Steve Boyes took part in the New Forest Marathon. He was pleased to complete it in 3 hours 26 as it is quite an undulating course. He came a very creditable 4th in his category and 52nd place overall out of 496 finishers.

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Woodbury 10K (19/09/2010)

Six Honiton runners travelled to Woodbury on Sunday to take part in the Woodbury 10k. The run was organised by Christian Aid to raise funds for their Zimbabwe appeal.
Starting at Woodbury village hall the undulating route took runners through pretty country lanes around Woodbury and Woodbury Salterton.
First home was our own Kevin Hawker who won the race in 36.20. This was despite running an 18 mile training run the day before. Kevin was followed by Milan Gok who finished fourth in 38.02. Next to finish were Nick and Sandra Thorpe who were doing their first race for many months. Nick finished 36th in a time of 50.17, with Sandra in 72nd place in 57.18. Closely following Sandra was Olivia Higginson in 76th place in 57.38. Jude Bassett now seems to have caught the racing bug, following her finish at the Bristol Half Marathon. Jude hoped to break the hour mark and was slightly disappointed to finish in 90th place in 62.24. 120 runners finished.

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Bristol Half (09/09/2010)

It all began with a couple of Honiton Running Club members mentioning that they were thinking about entering Bristol Half Marathon. The idea was infectious and soon over 20 members had entered. Then followed months of training and many who had to have their arms twisted to take on the challenge were about to embark on their first taste of a half marathon. All took their training very seriously and at weekends they could often be found pounding the streets around Honiton clocking up necessary mileage. It was wonderful to see so many black vests amongst the runners although they were still hard to spot as there were about 11,000 racers altogether. 

Pippa Westall led the first timers home for Honiton pleased to break the 2 hour barrier stepping over the finish line in 1 hour 54 minutes. Next in was Natalie Hazelwood who had travelled all the way from New Zealand to take part. She took 2 hours 4 mins and was followed by Rachel Gair who completed in 2:07. Although she had trained hard, preparation just before the race was not Jo Harrison’s strong point. Despite a lack of safety pins, spare clothing and not expecting the toilet queue to be quite as long as it was, Jo made it to the start line on time and was pleased with her time of 2:11. However, she’s not sure she could be persuaded to do another race of that distance. Venetia Topham felt her run was not that bad considering her lack of preparation. She appreciated the support from other Honiton runners and she finished in 2:16. She managed to run all the way except one little hill at the end when she was quite relieved to find herself stuck behind other runners forcing her to walk. It was touch and go whether Jude Bassett would make it to the start line at all as after training hard for weeks; she sustained a niggling injury and was forced to rest for 3 weeks prior to the race. Jude finished in 2:21 which could be used as her target for next time! Although Jill Wood ran the London Marathon this was her first attempt at a half. She had some sort of tummy bug earlier in the morning and only decided to run at the last moment because she had received a text from a friend saying "mind over matter". She was pleased with her time even though she just missed the 2 hour 30 mark to finish in 2:32. Sandy Chugg is a familiar face at Club training runs and has a reputation for being very gritty and determined. She often takes the harder option and continues to press on no matter what. This was how she tackled Bristol successfully completing it in 2:50. She really did deserve her medal.

Bristol wasn’t just run by novice Honiton members as several of the more frequent faces on the racing scene also took part. First back for this group was Jill Harrison in a great time of 1:27 making her 1st in her category ahead of the next person by 9 minutes. Julian Gigg has been quietly training very hard and ran an impressive time of 1:32. Fran Bond was next back finishing in 1:35. Richard Harris somehow managed an excellent time of 1:36 despite not training as much as he would have liked. He was ahead of Steve Davey who also finished in 1:36. Bruce Strawbridge had managed to cross the line ahead of Steve but his chip time was slower by 30 seconds (1:37) as he had crossed the start line before Steve. Richard Harvey had run with Bruce for most of the race and his time was 1:38. Judy Davey finished a few seconds ahead of Paul Davey but they were both given a time of 1:41. Paul had battled with stitch and had to walk at times. John Burgess was happy with his time of 1:45. He had managed to pass Sarah Lowman just after the 3 mile point. She finished in 1:50. Jennie Sleeman had a good run and finished well under 2 hours in 1:53 and Tracey Strawbridge somehow managed to run nearer 14 miles than 13.1 to finish in 2:17. Tony Whiteley was another one who it was doubtful would make the start line due to recent injury but he was there and finished in 2:22.

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Lustleigh Show 10K, Hay Hill Raiser,  Shepton Beauchamp 10K (05/09/2010)

On Bank Holiday Monday, Ceri and Warren Oak took part in the Lustleigh Show 10k multi-terrain race. The Show itself offers plenty for the whole family to take part in after the race and Warren and Ceri thoroughly enjoyed the day. Ceri won a prize for coming 3rd lady in a time of 45:59 and 31st place and Warren was pleased with his time of 53:24 giving him 75th place out of 120 runners.

Alan Nichols, Honiton Running Club’s member who now lives in Wales, ran the Hay Hill Raiser on Sunday which is an 11.5 miles road race. The only problem was that after a nice 3 miles of easy running they stuck the Eiger in the way for the next 5 miles. The route went from Hay on Wye all the way up to the bottom of Hay Bluff then sharply down for the last 3.5 miles. Uphill running is not really Alan’s strong point and he hasn't been doing many long runs so he wasn't totally surprised that his time was 1.51 which is slower than he would usually take over this distance. Alan thought Devon was hilly but now understands why most of the Hay runners were very happy to officiate. 

On the same day, Claire Pomeroy and Simon Hall took part in the Shepton Beauchamp 10k cross country which is a low key small and friendly village event. This is one of their favourite races and Claire was delighted to come home 2nd lady.

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Battle of Sedgemoor 10K (29/08/2010)

On Sunday, Langport Runners hosted their Battle of Sedgemoor 10k Road Race which is a mainly flat and potentially fast race around the villages of Drayton and Muchelney and back to Langport. It passes through some extremely scenic rural countryside and attracts top class competitors as well as those seeking a personal best time. The race was won by Kevin Heywood of Bideford AAC in the incredible time of 31:28. Honiton Running Club’s very own Jill Harrison came 1st lady overall in 39:04 leading the Honiton group home. Paul Davey was next in for the club coming 74th in 41:26 followed by Vernon Gillard who came 99th in 43:06. Nick Bradley-Carter had a great time managing to run yet another pb finishing in 45:28. This was despite running most of the race with one lace coming undone. He coped with that but it was having someone telling him every couple of minutes; "Your shoelace is undone" that got a bit tedious! He came 157th and there were 451 finishers.

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Dalwood 10K (20/08/2010)

The Dalwood 10k last Wednesday saw Honiton runners out in force with 22 taking part. This race forms part of the Dalwood Fayre celebrations and is a mixture of road and off road taking in plenty of the local hills. This was the 2nd running of the race and a record 92 runners took part. It was a perfect evening for running and many runners stayed after the race to take advantage of the curry or sausage and chips served outside the Tuckers Arms.

Alex Todd of local Axe Valley Runners won the race in a time of 39:49 and the first Honiton runner home was Kevin Hawker in 4th place and 41:02. New to Honiton Running Club, Ian Stewart, had a brilliant inaugural run coming next in 12th place and 44:31. Young Tom Dunn continues his great form and managed 23rd place and 46:58. Just one other runner managed to squeeze in between the next five Honiton runners who all finished within a minute of each other. They were; 29th Richard Harvey 48:11, 31st Steve Davey 48:18, 32nd Bruce Strawbridge 48:37, 33rd Richard Harris 48:48 and 34th Ceri Oak 49:17. They were closely followed by Vernon Gillard who hasn’t raced recently and doesn’t consider himself as fit as he could be. He came 36th in 49:52. Marion Broom was delighted with her run as she hasn’t raced for almost a year but finished in a very respectable time of 55:57 and 52nd place. 

Pippa Westall was expecting to come to Dalwood for a leisurely training run only to find that it was a race! Reluctant at first, she soon got into the swing of things and managed to finish in under an hour in 59:30 and 61st place. Alan Nichols travelled all the way from Wales to take part – he must have forgotten about those Devon hills or he may not have bothered! He came 71st in 1:01:34. 

Tracey Strawbridge finished as usual with a fine sprint to the line in 86th place in 1:10:08 ahead of Simon Hall one place later in 1:12:51. Simon had a good excuse though as he took part in the round Britain coastal run which started some months ago. Earlier in the day the run went from Portland Bill to Sidmouth with Simon running the leg from West Bay to Lyme Regis.

Other Honiton runners: 39th Roger Saunders 50:31, 44th Judy Davey 52:46, 47th John Burgess 53:40, 58th Nick Thorpe 57:56, 67th Claire Pomeroy 1:00:10, 76th Gerry Evans 1:03:07, 82nd Sandra Thorpe 1:06:58 and 85th Lin Pike 1:09:32.

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Haslebury Trail 10K, Salisbury Ultra 50K, Sidmouth Festival 10K, Yeovilton Summer Series & Jurassic Coast 10K (16/08/2010)

Last week three Honiton Running Club members took part in the Haselbury Trail 10k race organised by Crewkerne Running Club. The race is a scenic off-road event taking runners through the grounds of Perrott Hill School and North Perrott Fruit Farm. It starts and finishes at North Perrott Cricket Club grounds and consists of two laps with about 20 stiles to negotiate. Apart from that it is relatively flat with one very short but sharp hill which runners have to endure twice. Quite a few brave runners managed to run it the first time but the majority were reduced to walking it for their second attempt. Local Axe Valley Runner Alex Todd won the race in a time of 39:16. Steve Davey was first in for Honiton in 36th place and 47:39 followed by John Burgess who continued his run of beating Judy Davey. John had followed her for most of the way but managed to overtake her at the 5 mile mark. John didn’t attempt to run the steep hill so Judy managed to get past him but her efforts were wasted when they reached the top as John regained his lead. He finished in 56th place in 50:55 with Judy coming 59th in 51:21 coming first in her category. There were 145 runners.

Steve Boyes recently ran the Salisbury 5-4-3-2-1 50k Ultra. He was delighted to come 15th overall and 2nd in his category in a time of 4hours 22 mins.

Bruce and Tracey Strawbridge were Honiton RC’s only representatives at the Sidmouth Festival 10k last week which has a particularly tough start with runners going up Peak Hill. The race was won by Sidmouth Running Club’s own Mateusz Szala in a time of 38:25. Bruce came 53rd in 50:23 and Tracey was pleased to have improved her time from last year to finish 195th in 1:11:18.

Three Honiton runners travelled to Yeovilton last Wednesday for the 5th race in the summer series of 5k races. It was a very worthwhile trip for two of them – Nick Bradley-Carter did a new PB of 21.47, and Tom Dunn further consolidated his recent run of good form with an impressive 19.43, another PB. Tim Legg, meanwhile, took another step on the road to old age, so it would seem, at 17.47, fully a minute slower than he was running a couple of years ago, and leaving him without having broken 17.30 this season (yet). Weather conditions were good, but for a headwind on the back straight.

On Saturday, Ceri Oak ran the Jurassic Coast 10k which starts and finishes at Budleigh Salterton. This is a race that offers something for everyone. Not only are there tough climbs and descents but there are beautiful stretches along river and coastal paths where runners can take in the fantastic views and landscape of the Jurassic Coast. All money raised goes towards the FORCE cancer charity. Ceri came 41st overall in 45:46 and first in her category.

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Brecon 10, Totness 10K (01/08/2010)

Alan Nichols has moved to Wales recently but is still a Honiton Running Club member and ran the Brecon 10 on Sunday in Honiton colours. It was a nice cool day with rain before the start which was good as the course is undulating with a nasty half mile uphill at 8 miles. Alan was pleased to go through 5 miles in 40 minutes and managed to finish in 84.30. He felt it was a good result as he hasn’t raced since last October. Alan is managing to fit more training in now and is looking forward to running the half marathon at Luberon in France with other Honiton members in October.

Also on Sunday, course records tumbled as the Totnes 10k took place with unusually dry conditions. A record entry of 576 runners took part in the 10K and a record 109 in the fun run. James Baker of Chichester Runners & AC beat the men’s course record by an amazing 32 seconds finishing in 34:57 and there were numerous new vet course records set. The race is organised by Teignbridge Trotters and starts and finishes at Borough Park. It is nearly all off road and relatively flat taking runners alongside the beautiful River Dart, on footpaths and bridle paths. Although none of the records were taken by Honiton Running Club members, the four who took part enjoyed the race. Steve Davey led Honiton home in 46:54 and 68th place. Bruce Strawbridge was next, two minutes behind Steve in 84th place. Judy Davey was 122nd finishing in 50:05. Tracey Strawbridge completed the Honiton team finishing in 1:09:37 and 432nd place.

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Honiton RC Juniors Annual Awards, The Blackdown Beauty (26/07/2010)

The parents of Honiton Juniors were invited to the annual awards evening and were treated to games of indoor tug-of-war as the weather was so wet. The President of Honiton Running Club, Alan Rowe MBE, presented the awards and Richard Harris of To an Fro who generously sponsors transport for the Club was also in attendance.
Awards were given to the following members: 
Great Improvement; Hester Heeler-Frood and Harry Whiteley,
Dedicated Runner: Jake Harvey, Katie Davey, Kieran Anderson & Reuben Heeler-Frood
Tough runner: Ella Harvey & Ed Cannings
Runner of the Year: Sam Urquhart & Lily Helston
Loyalty: Sophie Keywood, Joanna Davey & Jennie Doble
Achievement in Athletics: Lauren Davey & Joe Urquhart
All members were congratulated on their individual achievements throughout the year. It has been a very successful year for the juniors and we are looking forward to resuming in September. If anyone aged 11-16 is interested in joining the juniors, click on the link to the junior section on the website www.honitonrc.com for more information.

The Blackdown Beauty took place for the second year on Saturday and several members of other local running clubs joined Honiton for this fun event. It was a social run taking in 5 pubs and a cream tea on an 18 mile circuit of the wonderful countryside of the Blackdown Hills. It was not a race but a chance to run and walk in good company enjoying the beautiful scenery following public footpaths and minor roads. It started at the Holman Clavel pub at Culmhead going through Pine Woods to the Queen’s Arms at Pitminster when the route goes cross country to Blagdon Hill and up to the Merry Harriers pub and then on to the Half Moon at Clayhidon. The next stop was Pear Tree Cottage at Stapley for a sumptuous cream tea provided by Smeatharpe WI, then York Inn at Churchinford before heading back to the Holman Clavel via Otterhead Lakes. Organisers were promoting a fancy dress theme of doctors, nurses and patients and this was the perfect excuse for the more adventurous Honiton Running Club member to indulge in a little fantasy. Fellow runners will never be able to take Bruce Strawbridge, Nick Thorpe, Steve Davey and many others seriously again! It was a great occasion with perfect weather – thanks particularly to Alan Nichols, Nick Thorpe and John Burgess as well as the local landowners for allowing runners to run over their land.

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Woodland Relays, Yeovilton 5K Series, Haytor Heller (18/07/2010)

It was Honiton’s turn to organize the 2nd Woodland Relay of the season which took place at Escot. A total of 25 teams of 4 runners took part and there were several comments saying that the course was one of the more enjoyable routes with it not being too hilly. Axe Valley Runners Men’s A team completed in the fastest time in 36 minutes 29 and the Met Office produced the fastest ladies’ team time of 42:08. Honiton Boys’ A team won the prize for the juniors coming home in exactly 42 minutes. There were some notable performances amongst the Honiton teams with Brian Charters running under 10 minutes after coming 4th in a fell race in Wales the day before. Tim Legg also came in under 10 minutes – twice in fact as he ran the first leg for Honiton and the final leg for the Met Office. He even managed to run faster second time round. The only other Honiton runner to achieve a sub 10 minute run was our fastest junior, Sam Urquhart who improves every time he puts on his trainers. Warren Oak was running leg 3 and he had a head start over his wife, Ceri, who was running the same leg. Warren was determined that Ceri would not catch him and as a result, he probably ran the fastest he has ever run before! She didn’t manage to get him! Julian Gigg had the fastest sprint finish of the evening and it was uphill!

It was lovely to have several of the Race for Life trainees take part especially as the Westpoint Race for Life was the day before. They ran round at their own pace and were accompanied by other members if they wished. Welcome aboard - hopefully they didn’t feel too daunted by it all and it has given them a taste to take part in other races for the Club. Thanks to everyone involved but especially Roger Saunders for doing the lion’s share of the organization.

The July Yeovilton 5 k series last Wednesday was a bit windy and none of the Honiton runners managed a pb although Steve Davey was pleased to run his best time of the season and Jill Harrison came 2nd lady. Tim Legg came 17th in 17:37, Jill 41st overall in 18:55, Tom Dunn 58th in 20:05, Steve 67th in 20:41, Roger Saunders 77th in 21:04, Judy Davey 90th in 22:04 and Claire Pomeroy 107th in 24:31. 

The 25th Haytor Heller 6 mile race organized by Teignbridge Trotters took place on Saturday evening and the name aptly describes the start. Runners are set off half way up the ascent to Haytor which is challenging for the hardiest of runners. It’s usual to see St John’s Ambulance in attendance at running events but to have the Mountain Rescue Service present was a little worrying! This was the first time the race has been run in the evening and it was a complete sell out before the day. The race is mainly run across rugged, open moorland but includes two short sections of woodland and a stream crossing. Runners are treated to beautiful scenery across Dartmoor and there are plenty of large granite boulders to negotiate. Brian Charters was first home for Honiton in 46:48 and 18th position. Next came Bruce Strawbridge and Steve Davey who often have a closely contested race. They took this to an extreme level this weekend as Steve followed Bruce for the entire race until the last 300 metres when Steve overtook. Bruce responded and ran as fast as he could to catch up, Steve upped his pace once again and they crossed the line at exactly the same time in 47th place in 52:49. Judy Davey came 69th in 56:28 and took home a bottle of wine for coming 2nd in her category. Tracey Strawbridge was really pleased with her time of 1:17:11 and 219th position. There were 240 runners. All agreed it was a great albeit very tough race and vowed to return next year.

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Forde Abbey 10K, The Tanners 30, Otter Valley Rail and River 10k (10/07/2010)

Last Thursday evening saw the running of the Forde Abbey 10k in the beautiful grounds of this former medieval monastery. There was a smaller field of runners this year but nevertheless those who took part enjoyed the scenery of this undulating route which also offers two river crossings, one of which you enter by sliding in on your backside and exit up a steep bank with the aid of a rope and a strategically placed hand of a strong marshal. Ed Stahl won the race in a time of 39:51 with Lucy Owen coming 1st lady. Steve Davey was 1st in for Honiton in 39th place in 46:08. Marie Wadey came 70th in 51:11 and Simon Hall 88th in 53:13. Next in 99th place was Sarah Warren in 55:41 and then Claire Pomeroy 116th in 57:54. Brenda spends most of her time in London visiting Honiton occasionally so it was great that she found the time to run Forde Abbey. She was 142nd in 63:44. Vanessa Glyn-Jones came 157th in 67:21.There were 174 runners. The event raised over £1000 for local charities.

Steve Boyes ran the last Tanners 30 at Leatherhead which consisted of 30 miles off road through beautiful Surrey countryside. He was pleased to have only got lost twice which turned his mileage into 32 but he still managed to finish in 6 hours 13 mins. He said it was a bit hot but great fun and it was brilliant to run the last one as it has been going for 50 years and to top it off there was a bargain entry fee of just £4.

The Tipton St John Playing Field Association in conjunction with the Women’s Running Network held the Otter Valley Rail and River 10k Run on Saturday. This is a very pleasant figure of eight course taking in the old railway line and lengthy sections beside the River Otter. Honiton runners were well represented with Tim Legg taking a podium position of 3rd in 40:45 in his first running of this race. Ceri Oak, having overtaken Steve Davey earlier in the race, was treated in a most un-chivalrous fashion by Steve who pipped her to the post. Steve came 16th in 45:35 with Ceri coming one place and one second later. It wasn’t all bad for Ceri though as she also managed 3rd place podium position for the ladies. Guy Paddon was next in 23rd position in 46:36. Although it hasn’t happened for over a year, it had to happen sometime and John Burgess managed to beat Judy Davey overtaking her at the 9k marker. He was 28th in 48:15 with Judy 35th in 48:52. Nick Bradley-Carter has been a frequent racer this year and came 48th in 51:19. Warren Oak found the heat got to him but came 58th in 53:18. Anne Ephraums doesn’t race that often but enjoys this route and turned up again this year. She came 89th in 1:01:07. Olivia Higginson looked like she was going to collapse as she crossed the line but did well to come 96th in 1:03:49. Vanessa Glyn-Jones was pleased with her run as she took about the same time as last week’s Feniton run despite the heat. She came 98th in 1:04:17. There were about 115 runners.

There was also a 2 ½ mile fun run for the juniors and Harry Whiteley and Katie Davey took part. Katie crossed the line as 1st girl but the leading group had taken a wrong turning and the true 1st girl was in this group. Harry Whiteley was also in this group and should have come 2nd boy overall.

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Beat the Bus, Feniton Frolic, Crewkerne Tri (04/07/2010)

The Beat the Bus run is the brainchild of Bill Valentine of Sidmouth Running Club, thought up to raise money for the charity Living with Cancer. The event was sponsored by Stagecoach South West. The idea was for runners to set off at 6:37 pm when the bus left its stop at Otterton last Wednesday. The bus then travelled to Sidmouth on its usual route whilst runners ran cross country to the same point. Bus and runners would both return with runners trying to beat it back to Otterton. All went well with the runners for the first mile even though it was uphill. At that point, and it could only happen in East Devon, runners were literally stopped in their tracks by two rather large farm vehicles in the form of a hay baler and turner blocking the narrow path. Runners had no choice but to regroup and wait for the vehicles to be moved before setting off again, many thinking that there was no chance of beating the bus then. Just how much did Stagecoach pay that farmer? The route then took runners along dusty paths, fields and wooded areas to the notorious Peak Hill at Sidmouth. It’s hard enough going down it but just to get to the bottom and be turned round to run up the road and up the steps is even worse. Runners were rewarded once the summit was reached as the return journey from this point is mainly down hill. Jill Harrison had a great run and was first home for Honiton in a time of 43:44, 14th overall and achieving 1st lady. Steve Davey was next in 25th place in 46:53 with Judy Davey being the only other Honiton runner finishing 34th in 49:53. There were 95 runners and the bus! Everyone was a little confused then about whether they had actually beaten the bus or not. A bus duly arrived at Otterton to cheering runners but then it turned out that the race was started with the departure of the wrong bus! Just how many buses stop at Otterton? Eventually, the official time for the correct bus was given as 57:06 meaning all Honiton runners did, in fact, ‘Beat the Bus’. A great run in beautiful countryside – thanks to all the organisers, marshals and Stagecoach but especially Bill Valentine – hopefully it will become an annual event. 

The Feniton Frolic is a 6 1/5 mile race which is organised as part of Feniton Fun Day with the help of Honiton Running Club members. Jo Pavey is used to travelling all over the world running and competing at an international level at various distances for Great Britain so it was lovely to have her visit her native village to judge Feniton’s Got Talent and to lead the warm up for the race. Runners had the privilege of having the race started by Jo too. 

Honiton Running Club had a fantastic turnout with 18 members turning out. Fran Bond had a great race coming 4th overall and 1st lady in a time of 46:09. She was followed by Steve Davey who came 8th in 47:15. One place behind him was Ceri Oak, another highly successful Honiton lady who also took a prize for coming 3rd lady in 48:25.

Several brave HRC members also belong to Honiton N1 Tri Club and had got out of bed very early this morning and taken part in a Triathlon at Crewkerne. Vanessa Glyn-Jones had a great morning’s event and came 1st in her category. She followed this with a good run at Feniton coming 49th in 1:01:32. Guy Paddon had also completed the Triathlon and came 27th overall at Feniton in 56:17.

Nick Thorpe, although walking fit following his 3 Peaks’ Challenge, hasn’t done a lot of running lately so wasn’t too hopeful about a fast time. Unfortunately, he was further delayed by coming to the aid of a fellow runner who required medical attention. He came 40th in 1:01:32. Jude Bassett had only raced once before and she found it harder than the last race so was pleased when she crossed the line. She came 59th in 1:12:19.

Other Honiton runners: 12th Bruce Strawbridge 49:22, 14th Roger Saunders 50:13, 15th Judy Davey 50:28, 17th John Burgess 51:15, 24th Nick Bradley-Carter 53:18, 25th Laura Pyle 55:16, 41st Pete Lyus 1:01:33, 44th Jo Davey 1:03:16, 47th Sandra Thorpe 1:04:13, 58th Blanka Obernik 1:11:15, 69th Sandy Chugg 1:20:27.

There was also a mile fun run for the juniors and Honiton RC’s Harry Whiteley came 3rd with Harry Boswell and Isaac Williams also taking part.

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Farway 10K, Yeo Mill Yomp, Cheltenham Challenge & the Festival 4 (24/06/2010)

Farway Primary School, supported by Honiton Running Club President Alan Rowe MBE, held its annual road race ‘Over the Hill and Farway 10k’ on Sunday in glorious sunshine. This attracted 11 HRC members despite it being Fathers’ Day and the World Cup being televised but braver than that, they turned out knowing that they would have to climb Farway’s mountain ‘Warren Hill’. Organizers had strategically placed ‘encouraging’ signs along The Hill and at one point runners were greeted by a skeleton with a sign saying, ‘You’ve done better than me!’ The cheerleaders from Farway School at the top were very welcome and although not many runners had the energy to acknowledge them they were much appreciated! Honiton’s Fran Bond won the ladies’ race as well as being crowned ‘Queen of the Hill’ for being first to the summit of The Hill. She completed the race in 45:03 coming 7th overall.’ She had overtaken Richard Harris in the latter stages much to his disappointment but he was pleased with his race as he likes a good hill. He came 8th in 45:41. Julian Gigg played his usual tactical race of walking most of The Hill which paid off as he finished one place behind Richard in 46:25. Vernon Gillard doesn’t consider himself at his peak at the moment but managed 11th place in 48:35. Judy Davey once again managed to hold off her biggest rival John Burgess, this time by just 4 seconds. Judy came 14th overall in 49:47 with John 15th in 49:51. John blames the defeat on running the unofficial Midsummer Dream the day before. Next in was Nick Bradley-Carter who managed to knock 5 minutes off his last year’s time. He came 17th in 50:48. Greg Axsel was 25th in 53:08. Simon Hall came 27th in 54:31 saying once again he’s never doing another race. Pippa Westall found the going hot but came 29th in 56:01. Sandy Chugg was on home ground but was glad when it was all over. She came 51st in 1:16:11. There were 54 runners.

Two Honiton runners ran the Yeo Mill Yomp at West Anstey on Sunday to support Howard and Debbie Bidmead of Tiverton Harriers who organize this event, both of whom come and support a lot of our local runs. 
The ten plus miles start at Yeo Mill and go up over Exmoor towards the village of Hawkridge and back again via a different route. The course includes steep, stony valleys and open moorland. 
The heat made the battle between Bruce Strawbridge and Steve Davey all the more difficult. Steve led for the first 4 miles with Bruce keeping him in his sights but making sure he kept enough energy for the rest of the course. After overtaking Steve, Bruce knew he had to keep in front, with Steve very determined to catch him up. They came across the line both looking as if they were about to collapse. Bruce came in just ahead of Steve in a time of 1:28:46 and Steve 1:29:29. 
Yeo Mill Yomp is definitely a race for your calendar next year. It is superbly organized and with fantastic scenery and cakes that Howard says are better than Dalwood Three Hills!

Steve Boyes took part in the Cheltenham Challenge which is reputedly the most scenic marathon in the country. It is definably a tough one which was reflected in Steve’s time of 4hrs 38 mins. For him the race turned into an ultra as he got lost twice so ran about 28 miles! No marshals, only yellow arrows and not enough of them!

Nick Bradley-Carter had a go at the Festival 4 Race in Exeter last Wednesday evening which was particularly commendable as he missed a club pub run to take part! It was an odd distance of 4.33 miles but a friendly flat course. He finished 50th in 31:16.

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Honiton Running Club take on the National 3 Peaks Challenge (20/06/2010)

On 11/12 June 26 members and friends of Honiton Running Club undertook the National 3 Peaks Challenge – scaling the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours.

After many months of training the walkers were delighted to complete the Challenge in times they had previously thought impossible.

Dividing into 4 groups, they set off from the Ben Nevis Inn at 5.45pm on Friday 11th June. Before too long the Knobs and Knockers (Warren Oak, Paul Lowman, Nikki Gigg, Sally Hutter and Mike Rose) had left the other groups trailing in their wake. Although the weather at the base was mild, they were soon walking in the clouds with the temperature dropping. Snow covered the summit and the wind chill temperature was minus 9oC. Too cold to hang around, so quick photos and then the descent.

The 4 drivers were in their places ready for the first drive – 5½ hours to Scafell Pike in the Lake District. Chance for a little sleep for some, but hopefully not for the drivers!

Arriving at Borrowdale at 3.00am the Thorpedos (Nick, Sandra and Reis Thorpe, John Burgess and Sarah Lowman) had caught the Knobs and Knockers. The climb up Scafell Pike started in the dark and as dawn broke the two groups resembled a Benny Hill sketch, vying for supremacy on the mountainside. Again the summit was covered in cloud and felt as cold as Ben Nevis . By now the three leading groups were separated by only a few minutes and a healthy, and sometimes not so healthy, rivalry had set in. The Blister Sisters+2 (Jackie and Denis Costello, Pete Lyus, Alison Guest, Jo Davey and Sue Jones) were snapping at the heels of the Thorpedos. On the descent we passed the fourth group, the Pole Dancers (Gerry Evans, Maggie Dillon, Wendy Williams, Jo Lowman, Vanessa Glyn Jones and Alan Nichols) who had unfortunately taken a wrong turn in a diversion in Glasgow.

With not a moment to lose, it was straight back in the minibuses for our final drive, 4 1/2 hours to Snowdonia.

They arrived in North Wales to find Snowdon in glorious sunshine with only an occasional cloud to cover the summit. The Knobs and Knockers had a commanding lead with the Thorpedos and the Blister Sisters+2 jockeying for position. As they started the climb the Thorpedos broke into two groups . Reis Thorpe had injured his hip on Scafell, so John Burgess and Sarah Lowman sped off, whilst Sandra and Nick assisted Reis’s painful climb . Snowdon was as usual incredibly busy, the lovely weather no doubt helping. Finally there were some glorious views to enjoy for the tired walkers. On Snowdon the Pole Dancers also split, Alan Nichols, Wendy Williams and Vanessa Glyn Jones racing ahead to try to get in under 24 hours, while Maggie Dillon, Jo Lowman and Gerry Evans took things slightly easier and even enjoyed a cappuccino in the mountain top café!

Back at the base, the drivers waiting for their groups with champagne corks ready to be popped. They had even found varying ways of keeping it chilled. Competition now over, the groups all congratulated each other for their brilliant performance.

Final finishing time were:- Knobs and Knockers 20hrs 44 mins, Thorpedos (part1) 21hs 17mins, Blister Sisters 21hrs 29 mins, Thorpedos (part2) 22hs 20mins, Pole Dancers (part1) 23hrs 37min, Pole Dancers (part2) 25hours 15mins (inc coffee)

All the walkers would like to say a big thank you to their drivers, Ryan Thorpe, Greg Axsel, Peter Bonetta and Jamie Roberts. They were all very much part of the team and without them the challenge would have not been possible.

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Michelmore's 5K, Yeovilton 5K Series, Umborne UG & Junior 2.5K (14/06/2010)

Olivia Higginson and Nick Bradley-Carter ran in the Michelmore's Charity 5K in Exeter last week. It is a new course this year running from the Quay to Double Locks. Luckily the rain held off and conditions were quite good. Olivia finished in 542 place with a time of 28.30, a very good result especially considering it's her first race since recovery from a foot injury back in the spring. Nick managed 142 place in 22:33 which he was delighted with as it's yet another new personal best time. 

A few more Honiton runners took part in the 3rd in the series of Yeovilton 5k. Brian Charters was first from Honiton home in 25th place and 18:19. Jill Harrison was next in a time of 18:32 achieving 2nd lady and 29th overall. Tom Dunn was the only runner to achieve a pb. He was 50th in a time of 19:50. Other runners: 47th Julian Gigg 19:46, 56th Richard Harris 20:00, 73rd Ceri Oak 20:45, 75th Steve Davey 20:47 and 97th Judy Davey 22:33. There were 153 finishers. 

Umborne village is presently having a brand new village hall built and the Umborne Ug, an annual 10k mainly off road race, is part of the villagers’ fund raising efforts. Luckily the weather was glorious as the headquarters was outside because the hall isn’t yet usable. Brian Charters was first home for Honiton in 5th place with a time of 46:17. Richard Harris had a great race coming 9th in 49:03. Bruce Strawbridge came 12th in 51:46 and Steve Davey had him in his sights for the entire race. Steve came 13th in 52:42. Judy Davey came 1st lady after a well fought battle in 54:46. Simon Hall said he took Eleanor Wood’s advice a bit too literally when she told runners to admire the view. He came 34th in 1:01:25. Pippa Westall was pleased with her race as she hasn’t done a lot of running recently. She was 38th in 1:02:35. Tracey Strawbridge hadn’t felt great at the start so did very well to complete it. She came 53rd in 1:21:59. There were 54 runners. 

The juniors had their own 2.5k race and Honiton runners did very well. Iain Ross was 2nd in 12:31 followed by Kieran Anderson who was 3rd boy in 13:14. Edward Cannings was delighted with his performance coming 5th overall in 13:20. He was followed by Isaac Williams; 1 place and 12 seconds later. Katie Davey was 2nd girl, 7th overall in 13:47 and young Joshua Foundling-Hawker had a go coming 18th in 17:22. There were 21 runners. Thanks to the organizers, Axe Valley Runners and the local land owners for a great but tough run. The cakes were great too!

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Crewkerne 9,  Talaton Trotter, Run in the Wild 10K (06/06/2010)

Steve Boyes took part in the military charity Project 65 Forces March last week. This is an incredible ‘Super challenge’ consisting of 5 legs of marathon length put on to raise funds for the care and support of wounded armed forces personnel and bereaved families. The event takes place over 5 days and participants choose to take part either by walking or running and, obviously, Steve chose to run it. The course is particularly challenging with many hills and valleys along the way. Spectacular scenery is very much a part of the route. It went fom Ilfracome to Bulford Camp in Wiltshire and Steve took a total time of 21hours 25 mins. He was delighted to get in under 24 hours – an amazing achievement, well done Steve!

The Crewkerne 9 mile road race took place last week and several Honiton runners took part. The race’s headquarters is at the Town Hall where the finish is and runners are taken straight out into the countryside where there are some glorious views. The first 1½ miles is an out and back route which also forms the 3 mile Junior/Fun Run route. This part is very hilly which is particularly challenging for those taking part in the Junior race. At least the adults get a bit of respite with a flattish section somewhere mid race. 

This was the first time Brian Charters had run the race and he was determined to finish under the hour. He managed this by 9 seconds finishing 13th overall. Steve Davey doesn’t usually like hills but he was determined to keep ahead of his wife Judy which he just about managed. He came 37th in 1:07:56 followed by Judy 3 places later in 1:09:27. Judy was 4th lady and 1st in her category. The only other two Honiton runners in the main race were Sarah Warren who came 61st in 1:14:21. She was pushed by Maria Wadey who came in one place and 16 seconds behind her. There were 102 runners. Katie Davey ran a great time in the Junior race collecting a trophy for 2nd girl. She finished the 3 miles in 26 minutes.

Having missed a year, Saturday saw the return of the Talaton Trotter 6 ½ mile race and several Honiton runners took part in very hot and humid conditions. First home for Honiton was Kevin Hawker who was 4th in a time of 46:38. Fran Bond was 2nd lady coming 11th overall in 53:01.
Other Honiton runners: 6th Tim Legg 49:18, 18th Ceri Oak 55:18, 33rd Guy Paddon 58:24, 34th Judy Davey 58:39, 35th John Burgess 58:41, 44th Greg Axsel 1:01:33 and 48th Paul Davey 1:03:07. There were 94 finishers.

John Burgess and Judy Davey decided one race at the weekend was not enough and took part in the Run in the Wild 10k hilly multi-terrain race at Cricket St Thomas on Sunday. John and Judy had their usual battle with Judy coming out on top for the second time in two days in a time of 56:16 and 76th place. John’s time was 57:11 and 84th place. Richard Harvey was delighted to be first Honiton runner home in 51:15 and 33rd place. He was ahead of Bruce Strawbridge who finished 52nd in and 53:39. Steve Davey was next back; 56th in 54:25. Warren Oak was pleased with his race as he was disappointed to have missed Talaton. He came 104th in 1:00:39. Nick Bradley-Carter has been a frequent racer recently and was pleased with his time of 1:02:32 in 120th. Runners who took part in 2009 found the going tougher this year and most found themselves slower by several minutes and Tracey Strawbridge was no exception. She finished 240th in 1:17:24. There were 279 finishers.
The second running of Honiton Running Club’s Blackdown Beauty takes place on Saturday 24th July. This is a social run taking in 5 pubs and a cream tea on an 18 mile circuit of the wonderful countryside of the Blackdown Hills. This is not a race but a chance to run and walk in good company enjoying the beautiful scenery following public footpaths and minor roads. It starts at 11.45 am at the Holman Clavel pub at Culmhead and heads through Pine Woods to the Queen’s Arms at Pitminster. The route then goes cross country to Blagdon Hill and up to the Merry Harriers pub and then on to the Half Moon at Clayhidon. The next stop is at Pear Tree Cottage at Stapley for a cream tea provided by the ‘legendary’ Smeatharpe WI, then on to the York Inn at Churchinford before heading back to the Holman Clavel via Otterhead Lakes. Visit www.honitonrc.com  website for an entry form. Entry fee is £6 to include a souvenir map and cream tea. Meals will also be available at the finish.

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Edinburgh Marathon, The Beast (Swanley) Dated (27/05/2010)

Heather Foundling-Hawker, John Burgess and Simon Hall took part in the Edinburgh Marathon last weekend with mixed results. Edinburgh is a very unusual route, in that it is a city centre start, but then goes past the finish at Musselburgh Racecourse which is 8 miles out of the city, and then does a loop for the remaining 18 miles, with a lot of those 18 a double back on the same road. This means that runners can catch a glimpse of those ahead or further behind them at several points and Simon and Heather managed to exchange words of encouragement to each other on such an occasion giving them a brief lift of energy and pace. With ridiculously barmy conditions of up to 25c/77F, with virtually no wind and on a course devoid of any shelter most runners suffered and Simon and John were no exception. John felt he was not doing too badly until 22 miles at which point a knee problem forced him to walk for 2 miles. He eventually managed to complete the race in just under 4 hours 30. Simon decided to forget finishing within a certain time and adopted a walk/run strategy. His 4 hours 54 minutes was disappointing but in the end he was just pleased to finish.

John and Simon’s problems were not over when they crossed the line as Simon had a mad dash to catch his plane and John had to get back to Edinburgh to the start. It took him several hours to find public transport that could accommodate him as it was so busy with everyone else who had got in first. It must have crossed his mind that he could have run back faster.

Heather predictably finished well ahead of John and Simon and was 6th in class in 3:12 with an overall finish position of 254 and 17th female. There were about 9460 runners.

Steve and Judy Davey decided to take in a race when they visited Kent for the weekend. They were attracted by the Beast in the East in Swanley. The course starts and finishes at Canada Heights which is the venue of the local motocross circuit. The race itself is billed as tough and very hilly which is not surprising as the first and last 1.8k consists of the motocross track itself which, although abnormally dry, contained seemingly vertical ups and downs. The middle part of the course took the runners into fields and woodland which would have been welcome relief but runners could only focus on the thought that they had to tackle that track once more. They were also faced with randomly placed netting which involved getting on hands and knees at one stage. Steve was very happy to finish 54th in a time of 52:07 with Judy not far behind; 68th in 53:27. Judy managed to finish 2nd lady overall and won a suitcase for her efforts. They both found the race completely energy sapping which was partly due to the hot conditions. There were 349 runners.

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The Woodland Relays, Yeovilton 5K Series, Ivybridge 10K, Ottery St Mary 10K (13/05/2010)

The first Woodland Relay race of the year took place at Morganhayes, Nr Colyton this week. This was organised by Axe Valley Runners and 24 teams of 4 from Honiton, AVR, The Met Office and Sidmouth took part. Some runners managed to take in some of the woodland scenery which was particularly sensual as the bluebells were in abundance. Others ran blinkered concentrating only on the mission ahead.

AVR men won the overall event and Honiton ladies made up of Fran Bond, Judy Davey, Ceri Oak and Jill Harrison took the first ladies’ team slot. Honiton also won the junior prize. The team was made up of Sam and Joe Urquhart, Jake Harvey and Reuben Heeler-Frood. Honiton men’s first team came 3rd overall. Tim Legg, Kevin Hawker, Richard Harvey and Brian Charters made up this team.

Other runners taking part from Honiton included; Steve Davey, Brent Dicks, Tony Whiteley, Richard Harris, Katie Davey, Kieran Anderson, Sophie Keywood, Iain Ross, Dougie Keywood, Harry Whiteley, Jill Wood and Pippa Westall. Thanks to AVR for the organisation, Warren Oak who organised the teams and John Burgess who supervised them and provided much needed support on the evening.

Wednesday saw the 2nd in the Yeovilton 5k series and 6 runners bravely left Honiton in the rain, saw completely dry roads on route but found it was pouring down at Yeovilton. Many runners who have been competing in this series for years commented that they had never had to run it in those conditions. It was quickly obvious that personal bests were out of the question as runners not only had to contend with the weather and the resultant puddles but there was also a substantial stretch of roadworks which runners had to negotiate twice. Tim Legg was first in for Honiton in 17:52 and 14th place followed 1 place and 18 seconds later by Brian Charters. Steve Davey was next home 64th in 21:03 with Roger Saunders hot on his heels for the entire race. Roger came 69th in 21:16. Judy could see them both for the whole race and was happy to use them as pacers. She was pleased to finish 40 seconds quicker than last month 76th in 21:42. Brent Dicks had been re-roofing his house all day and having done physical work for a change found himself very tired and was ok about finishing in 22:55 and 94th albeit slower than last month. He’s got to go some to touch his pb by the end of the summer. There were 143 runners.

Paul Davey and Nikki Campbell went to Ivybridge on Saturday evening for the Ivybridge 10K. This is one of the first races Paul did and still enjoys. He ran a negative split doing the first 5K in 20.25 and the second 5K in 19.25 to get under the 40 minute mark by ten seconds and was very pleased. Nikki Campbell had a good run and was pleased with her time of 52.15 showing that her Brighton Marathon is out of her legs now.

Sunday saw a larger than usual entry for Karen Hall Ottery 10k even though it was a wet morning. This local undulating road race brought a good turn out of Honiton runners led home by Brian Charters who finished 5th overall in 38:27. Paul Davey having had less than 24 hours to recover from Ivybridge didn’t manage under 40 minutes but was delighted with his time of 41:44 and 12th place. Richard Harris’ appearance confirmed what everyone knew already – he’s completely nuts! He’d had an operation on his wrist on Wednesday and looked like he had a boxing glove on. His attitude was that the doctor hadn’t said he couldn’t run and you don’t run on your hands! He had a great battle with Julian Gigg both being given the same time of 42:52 but Julian crossing the line first. John Burgess and Nick Bradley-Carter tussled for position throughout the race with John coming out on top in 37th place and 47:36 with Nick 45th and 47:36 having achieved yet another pb.

Other Honiton runners: 24th Steve Davey 44:41, 27th Roger Saunders 44:47, 35th Judy Davey 46:12, 44th Jarrod Brown 47:34, 60th Pippa Westall 48:53, 84th Jennie Sleeman 51:05, 94th Alan Rowe 51:47, 118th Tony Whiteley 53:47, 151st Anne Ephraum 58:41, 176th Blanka Obornik 1:02:19 and 181st Tracey Strawbridge 1:02:49. There were 212 runners.

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The Great West Run & Stratford-Upon-Avon Marathon (09/05/2010)

The Great West Run half marathon took place in Exeter on Sunday and Honiton Running Club’s Heather Foundling-Hawker came an impressive 2nd lady and 38th position overall in a time of 1:26. She was not far behind the first lady; South West Road Runner Lucy Commander who finished in 1:25. Tom Merson of Bristol and West AC was 1st overall in an impressive 1:10. 

Tony Whiteley also had a go at this undulating course finishing in 1380th position in a time of 2:05 which wasn’t too far ahead of Honiton RC President Alan Rowe who finished 3 minutes later in 1501st position. Tony had developed cramp but ran a better time than in 2007. There were 2103 finishers.

While everyone else seemed to be running London Marathon last week, Nick Bradley-Carter took part in his first marathon on the same day at Stratford-upon-Avon. He chose Stratford because it's his home town and he was running for Macmillan Cancer Charity in memory of his sister who died last year. He was disappointed with his time of 4hrs 52min as he got bad stomach cramps at 18 miles but he was still pleased he managed to finish.

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The Black Death Run & Curry Mallet 10K (09/05/2010)Many runners were pleased to see The Black Death run at Combe Sydenham Park return after a 2 year sabbatical.  It is somewhat on the edge of Honiton’s catchment for events, but 4 club members took part in this 10 mile off road run on the edge of Exmoor.  It’s a hilly run mainly along woodland tracks, with the occasional really scenic view.  Event times are quite a lot different from what people recorded on their own watches – generally event times around 3 minutes slow.  Bruce Strawbridge was beaming at the finish, not so much with a great time of 1.30.34 to come in 45th, but because at last he was back to running on the surface and type of terrain he most enjoys.  Simon Hall was also really pleased with 1.51.04 and 138th, as it exorcised some of his London marathon demons, and after an enforced lay off since then, is finally optimistic of being able to start Edinburgh in a couple of weeks. His plan was to go really steady, but he got fed up with that during the first long hill and went past Claire Pomeroy and Tony Whiteley.  Claire did pull back some time during the long descent at the end to finish in 1.58.05 and 159th.  Tony started steadily but found some of the rough descents hard to negotiate, but still came in respectfully at 2.11.12 in 196th.  Winner Mark Hopkinson finished in 1.07.24, or around 7 minute miling,and a good two minutes clear of the next runner - phenomenal for the amount of climbing in the distance.  

Meanwhile, Nick Bradley-Carter was also in Somerset running the Curry Mallet 10k which had a much smaller field of runners. Nick had a brilliant run securing a new personal best time of 47:49 which gave him 3rd place in his age category. Milan Gok, who has recently moved away from Honiton, won the race in a time of just over 37 minutes which was a new personal best for him too.

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London Marathon (Dated 18/04/2010)Thirteen Honiton Running Club members took part in this year’s London Marathon and most were raising money for charity. The Club’s nominated charity this year is the Citizens Advice Bureau. 

Kevin Hawker and Milan Goc both managed to come in before 3 hours. Kevin in 2:51 and Milan in 2:54. Fran Bond had a very good even run, hardly slowing at all. She beat last year’s time by 6 minutes finishing in 3:18. Judy also had an exceptional run managing to break the 3:30 barrier by 4 minutes which was over 12 minutes quicker than last year. All four of these runners now have an automatic place in London for 2011 and 2012. 

Richard Harris had overtaken Judy at 9 miles but she managed to pass him at 13 on Tower Bridge. Richard managed 3:37 which he was quite happy with as he has been very busy recently and not done as much training as last year. Bruce Strawbridge started from a different place to the others and when the routes merged he could see Fran and Judy ahead. He was running very comfortably with another competitor at that stage and decided he wasn’t going to burn himself out by trying to catch the girls preferring to run and chat with his new friend. He finished in 3:41 which was faster than his time of 2 years’ ago.

Claire Pomeroy was disappointed to have missed the 4 hour barrier by 3 minutes but she enjoyed the atmosphere of her first London Marathon. Vernon Gillard wasn’t far behind finishing in 4:05. It was the first time Laura Pyle, Louise Saunders and Jill Wood had ever run a marathon and all three have been training hard. Jill has recently been in away in New Zealand but she managed a couple of long training runs despite the heat. Laura finished in 4:23, Louise 4:24 and Jill 5:17. 

Gerry Evans got his London place through the Club ballot so it has been good to see him running with the Club recently as he usually only turns up when there is a pub involved! As a result he managed to crack the 4:30 barrier by just 7 seconds. Janet Leach got a charity place and has raised a considerable amount of money for Children with Leukaemia. She finished in 5:13.

Meanwhile, Lily Helston took part in the 3 mile Mini London Marathon after being selected recently. She said it was an amazing experience and was delighted with her time of 19:45 and 30th place in her category of age 11-12 girls.

Nikki Campbell ran Brighton Marathon last week but was hoping for a quicker time than the 4:32 she managed as her training has been going very well. Steve Boyes also took part in this event managing 3:24 after slowing dramatically after the 18 mile mark.

Congratulations to all our marathon runners no matter what time they obtained - running 26.2 miles is an amazing achievement in itself. They should all feel very proud.

If this has inspired you but a marathon seems just a little too far, Honiton Running Club is organising a course of one hour sessions to get runners fit for the Race For Life Charity Runs. The 8 week course starts on Monday May 10th at 6.40pm at the Sports Centre where registration will be held (meet at 6.30pm). The local Race For Life event will take place on 11th July at Westpoint, Exeter – see www.raceforlife.org to enter and for more information. Although this course has been put on with ladies training for Race For Life in mind, everyone is welcome to come along – even men! This would be an ideal opportunity if you fancy running and would like to join a beginners’ group. Either complete an application form available from the race page on our website www.honitonrc.com  or just turn up on 10th May. For more information email Jo or Paul Lowman at [email protected].   

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Easter Bunny & Taunton Half (11/04/2010)Last week, Honiton Running Club members took to the lanes around Yeovilton Air Base to take part in the Easter Bunny 10k. This is a fast flat course that is ideal for runners seeking a personal best time for the distance as well as the runner wishing to try out a 10k for the first time. 

First home for Honiton in the incredibly fast time of 38:00 was Jill Harrison who managed 2nd lady position and 42nd place overall. Jill has had a break from running recently but has gradually been regaining her form and this race has definitely proved she is now there. Paul Davey came in next feeling a little disgruntled not to have cracked the 40 minute barrier by 30 seconds. He came 67th overall. 

Next home was Simon Hall in 162nd place in a time of 48:03. He was pleased to have come in front of Claire Pomeroy who managed to beat him in their last race. She came 177th in 49:02. John Burgess was next home 189th in 49:47. He had been taking it steadily because Simon, Claire and John had all planned to run the route again straight after the race as part of their marathon training. They managed to repeat about 4 miles of the route but having pushed themselves during the race, found it very hard and decided to stop short of the full distance. 

Marie Wadey who had run the race pushing her son, Oscar in his buggy started right at the back and had gradually worked her way through to finish 192nd in 50:18. Completing the Honiton group was Nikki Campbell who came in 200th place with a time of 51:02. There were 356 finishers.

On Sunday, several members took part in the Taunton Half Marathon which is a reasonably flat road race starting and finishing at Somerset College of Art and Technology. 

Kevin Hawker is running the London Marathon in two weeks had said he was going to run the half at his marathon pace but ended up getting carried away finishing in 1:17. Had he completed the marathon at that pace, he would almost have won it! Tim Legg was quite happy finishing 4th in his category in a time of 1:23. Not content with his disappointment at the Easter Bunny, Paul Davey managed to disappoint himself again by missing his 1 hour 30 minute goal finishing in 1:31. Judy Davey and Vernon Gillard both agreed at the start that they would be happy to finish in 1:38. Vernon usually runs much faster than this but has just come back from an all inclusive holiday and had piled on a few pounds. Both managed to miss their goal; Judy just by one minute finishing in 1:39 and Vernon finished in 1:41 having had Judy in his sights for most of the race. Next in was Claire Pomeroy who was very pleased with her race coming in very close to her personal best time in 1:48. 

Simon Hall was a little braver and tackled the marathon which is made up of two loops of the half marathon but all marathon racers would agree that the organisers put a few more hills in for their second loop! He had decided at the outset that he would pull out at about 20 miles and at that point he met up with a colleague who wasn't running and settled for getting a lift back home chatting as other competitors trundled past. Simon’s colleague wanted to check on another runner further back so Simon walked on for a bit. He came across a lady in a wheel chair attempting the half marathon but struggling on a slight incline. Someone gave her a push but there was no way she was getting up a steeper hill at Oake a little further on. Simon was still of a mindset on getting a lift home even though he had run on to this point, but decided to recruit someone from the pub beer garden to push her up the hill. They jogged back to find her and got her to the top. It became clear that there was no way she was going to be able to finish her half marathon before the cut off time and there were still hills to come so Simon began running and pushing a wheel chair! Soon after they obtained a police motorcycle escort as they were about to join the main road. Simon forgot his aches, pains and tiredness as he had a new race to run. At 23 miles they had 35 minutes left to finish but with the main hill still to come. It got tight but a shattered Simon crossed the line with his new friend with minutes to spare both accepting well earned medals. What a prep run for the Edinburgh Marathon!  

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Reading Half, Whimple 5, Geat west (22/03/2010)A half marathon race several weeks before a spring marathon is always good training and Simon Hall and Claire Pomeroy took the opportunity to have a weekend break and take in the Reading Half at the same time. Claire had an excellent run finishing within seconds of her previous personal best in 1:49. She had the added satisfaction of finishing in front of Simon who came in 1:53 just 43 seconds in front of club mate Nick Bradley-Carter. Milan Goc also made the long trek to Reading finishing in a brilliant time of 1:21 and 161st place. 

Several Honiton runners travelled the much shorter distance to Whimple last Sunday to take part in the Whimple 5 mile road race organised by Honiton Running Club members Janet Leach, Maggie Richards and Sarah Evans. The Honiton Club had considerable success with Tim Legg winning the race for the men and Ceri Oak coming first lady.
This is a very low key event with the emphasis being on having fun and raising money for the Children with Leukaemia charity rather than finishing positions and times. The race starts and finishes at Whimple Cricket ground and consists of a loop taking in the quiet country roads nearby. About 50 runners took part. 

For some (mentioning no names), the race began before the actual event upon the realisation that they had not put their clocks forward. Nevertheless, they all made it to the start in time. 

Ceri’s husband was able to make a hasty decision to take part after organising a last minute child minder in the form of Gill Day of Axe Valley Runners who was spectating. Tracey Strawbridge was accompanied by her husband Bruce who acted as her pace maker and as a result Tracey was very pleased with her time of under 50 minutes. Nick Bradley-Carter, fresh from Reading also took part after running 21 miles on Saturday.

Some of the juniors, after having a taste for a longer distance by taking part in the 6 mile Sport Relief run recently, decided that the fun run around the cricket ground was not for them and ran the full 5 miles with the adults. Sam Urquhart, Lily Helston, Jake Harvey, Harry Whiteley and Katie Davey all did incredibly well with Lily and Sam winning a medal for first under 16 girl and boy. Harry was accompanied all the way round by his Dad, Tony and was very pleased to finish in 43 minutes.

Other Honiton runners taking part included Julian Gigg, Richard Harvey, Steve Davey and Brent Dicks. There were many spot prizes to be had and runners could treat themselves to cakes or a barbecue and it wasn’t even raining! Hopefully, a substantial amount was raised for charity.

Elsewhere, three Honiton runners went to the Teign Valley for the Teignbridge Ten at Kingsteignton. The rain held off and with little wind the conditions were ideal. Paul Davey led the runners home but set off too fast which caught up with him later on. The course used to be a one lap circuit with long stretches but has been changed to a three lap circuit. Paul was happy with his 1.07 but felt he should have done better. Next across the line was Nikki Campbell who has been training hard for her Brighton marathon next month. Nikki took off not knowing what to expect as this was her first 10 miler; she crossed the line in 1.23 and was very pleased with her time. The next Honiton runner was Lesley Crocker who has only just joined the club after moving up from Cornwall. She was quite pleased with her time as she hasn’t been racing lately with the move to Honiton but she crossed the line in 1.33 and it looks like she could be a regular on the racing circuit. Well done and welcome to Honiton Running Club Lesley.  

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Honiton Sport Relief Mile  (22/03/2010)Sport Relief came to Honiton in style on Sunday morning. Members of Honiton Running Club were up bright and early with signs and tape, banners, water bottles and goody bags, as they prepared the High Street for The Honiton Mile. By 9:30 the skies were clear, the sun was out and the Mackarness Hall was jammed with mums, dads, kids and teens signing up for the run. In one corner the marshals were being briefed and in another the kitchen crew were doling out cakes and drinks. As the time for the mile run approached Race Director, Richard Harvey, conducted the crowd down to the warm up area where local Olympian Jo Pavey welcomed everyone to the Honiton Mile and thanked them for playing their part in support of Sport Relief. She then drilled the runners in running on the spot, star jumps and stretches, the kind of body torturing exercises most had not done since their school days. The road outside the Congregational Church was crowded with over 400 runners as they lined up for the start. After a safety briefing, Jo gave the countdown and blasted the klaxon, and the run was under way. Flying off the front were many youngsters, including a good contingent from Honiton Primary School who had been rounded up by teacher, Sam Ayres. Taking it more steadily was a group of beginner runners from Axe Valley Club encouraged by their leader Jonathan Day. Also in the mix were many members young and old (one over 70) from Honiton Community Church who had delayed the start of their morning service to support Sport Relief. Finally in their splendid regalia, were Mayor Vivienne Ash and Town Cryer, Dave Retter leading members of Honiton Council at more dignified pace. It was not long before the first runners came hurtling to the finish in New Street. Honiton Running Club’s Brent Dicks’ hopes of glory were dashed as he was overtaken just before the finish, but another Honiton Club runner Kieran Anderson ran a great race to be the first junior. Jo Pavey, used to flying round the track before 1000’s of cheering spectators, jogged along chatting to people and then happily stood for photographs. Jo’s husband Gavin pushed 4 month old Jacob Pavey round the course. Jo asked if he could have a medal, because, as she said, “It’s his first medal for taking part in a run, and could be the first of many”. But the morning was not about times or positions and the spectators cheered and clapped as tots and teens, parents and grandparents crossed the line. The end of New Street was awash with runners and spectators. With the music playing , Honiton Twirlstars displaying their skills , Richard Pinney giving a commentary and the sun shining there was a great atmosphere. Then it was time for water bottles, goody bags and medals. Since these were sent out over a week ago by Sport Relief based on the number of online entries there were just were not enough to take account of the overwhelming last minute support, so there was some disappointment. Then it was time for the 3 and 6 milers. Again Jo led the warm-up and set them off. Just before the start she was thanked for giving her support to the event by organiser, John Burgess, and presented with a bouquet of flowers by Honiton Running Club Junior Kieran Anderson. Patiently waiting round the course were the marshals who do a lonely job keeping the runners safe, and the organisers would like to express their thanks to Honiton Lions Club and Honiton Rotary Club for supporting Sport Relief in this vital way. Thanks are also due to the police who temporarily closed off roads at vital times and ensured safety at difficult junctions, and also to the St John Ambulance service for providing emergency first aid cover, thankfully not required. Honiton Running Club also want to thank on behalf of Sport Relief the kind donations of cakes from local bakeries, Shauls, Warrens and the Crusty Cob and also donations of over £300 received from the general public through the street collection. We look forward to an even bigger and better event in 2012. 


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Lily Helston of Honiton Junior Running Club has been very busy over the last few months after qualifying to represent Devon at club and schools level. After obtaining a top 3 place at the Devon trials she then went on to race against the best in her age group at the South West heats and finished the race with a very impressive top 5 place. These consistent results secured her a place in the Devon Squad that raced in Birmingham at the weekend.

Crofton Park was the setting for the World Cross Country Selection and the National Cross Country Finals with the top 300 girls in the UK competing. Lily found herself warming up with Mo Farah the eventual winner and British 3k record holder who stopped to have a quick chat.

With over 4000 runners and spectators in the park it was an impressive sight. The 3k course started with a testing long climb out into the distance, a sweeping bend back down towards the waiting crowds, then a long loop of the park ending with a fast down hill finish.

Lily lined up with 305 of the best under 13 girls in the UK. At only 12 Lily was one of the youngest athletes in the age category and her target this year was to finish in the top 150.
At the start of the race Lily found herself in the middle of the pack having been held up at the start; but by the time she came back down the hill her confidence growing, she started to push hard. The half way point saw Lily right on target to achieve her top half prediction. With only 1k left Lily realised she could improve on her position and gave it every thing she had and started moving up the field.

Lily finished 51st with over 250 athletes behind her and only 40 seconds behind the eventual winner. This was easily her biggest race to-date and was a credit to hard work and commitment with a superb run and still more to come.
Lily now has a short rest before she goes to London to represent the South West at the London Marathon Mini Event, again lining up with the fastest and best girls in what is probably one of the top running events in the world. 


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The Grizzly (11/03/2010)Honiton runners took part in Axe Valley Runners’ 20 mile multi-terrain challenging Grizzly last week with mixed results.

First home for Honiton and crowned ‘first local man’ was Kevin Hawker in a great time of 2 hours 41 and 9th place. Brian Charters followed him producing a fantastic time for his first Grizzly of 2:50 and 36th place. Brian is used to long distance off road running but he said this was the hardest run he has ever done and came as close as he ever has to giving up during a race.

Bruce Strawbridge is running brilliantly at the moment and his Grizzly was no exception. He came 208th in 3:20. Next came a flurry of runners all within 6 minutes of each other in the form of 308th Richard Harvey 3:29, 317th Richard Harris 3:30, 322nd Judy Davey 3:31, 343rd Roger Saunders 3:31 and 365th Ceri Oak 3:33. Guy Paddon was not far behind in 407th place and 3:36. 

There followed a gap then until Greg Axsel came in 584th place and 3:48. This was his first Grizzly and he did pretty much as he expected. Maria Wadey who ran with hubby Chris followed closely behind came in 602nd and 3:49. Leisa Lavendar was happy with her 654th place and 3:53 time as she felt she hadn’t done the required training.

Simon Hall managed to have someone knock into him at the bog and his glasses fell off. Another runner promptly stood on them and broke them which left Simon no option but to run in a haze. Broken glasses and runner did get reunited at the finish. This was a new experience for Simon and he did well to come 884th in a time of 4:11. 

Warren Oak was next home in 1017th place and 4:22. Tracey Strawbridge was absolutely delighted to beat the 5 hour barrier and knock 12 minutes off last year’s time to come 1313th in a time of 4:55. Tony Whiteley really struggled with a knee injury and came 1386th in 5:07. He has never run anything like that distance before but he still said he would return next year. There were nearly 1500 runners.

If you weren’t quite brave enough to tackle the full Grizzly, there was always the Cub. This was in itself a gruelling 9 miles of multi-terrain hills and beach. Quite a few Honiton runners took part in this and didn’t regret taking the ‘easy’ option for a minute.

Julian Gigg had only returned from skiing the previous day and changed his mind from doing the Grizzly to the Cub on his return. He was first Honiton runner home in 27th place and a time of 1:25. Steve Davey was next home feeling very relieved that he too had recently changed to the Cub. He was 46th in 1:32. Sarah Warren was next in and managed to confuse the commentator by entering as a Crewkerne member but running in her Honiton vest. She was 49th in 1:34 and was followed by Claire Pomeroy who was 58th in 1:36. Just one minute later followed Pippa Westall in 62nd place and Dennis Costello followed her in 96th place and 1:43. Next was Jennie Sleeman, 112th place in 1:45, Vanessa Glyn-Jones 166th in 1:56 and Pete Lyus, who took a very leisurely pace accompanying his daughter. He came in 219th in 2:09. There were 300 finishers. 

Both races provided entertainment along the way with musicians in abundance who could be heard for miles across the valleys. The marshals and spectators were very encouraging and Jelly Baby stocks in local shops must be at an all time low. Thanks to everyone at AVR especially Garry Perratt but thanks to all the other hundreds of people who made the race possible.

Meanwhile other Honiton runners were out elsewhere. Heather Foundling-Hawker took part in the Dutchy Marathon in gale force winds. Nevertheless, she had a brilliant run and managed to come first lady in 3:06:02, 15 minutes ahead of the 2nd lady. Steve Boyes also had a great race finishing in 3:37:05.

Nicki Campbell, Louise Saunders and Jill Wood are all taking part in spring marathons and they took a trip to Bideford as part of their training. They ran the half marathon and were delighted with their times. Nicki was 448th in 1:50:45, Louise 527th in 1:55:16 and Jill 728th in 2:09:00 which was another pb for her. 


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Hestercombe Humdinger (21/02/2010)On Sunday, five Honiton Running Club members took part in the Hestercombe Humdinger which is a challenging 9.5 mile figure of eight race. It is run entirely on quiet Somerset country roads and is organized by Running Forever Running Club. The race is set in the Quantock Hills in the heart of Somerset and starts and finishes at the delightful Hestercombe Gardens, near Taunton. The route is hilly and incorporates almost 1500 feet total climb.

This is the third year that the race has taken place and Bruce Strawbridge has run it every year. He led the Honiton runners home and was delighted to have beaten his previous times by several minutes to come 49th in a time of 1:09:58. Judy Davey was next home but didn’t do quite as well coming 87th in a time of 1:15:39 which is slower than her last Humdinger. Sarah Warren was next in 161st place and 1:22:48 followed by Tony Whiteley, 206th and 1:28:33, who was completing this race for the first time. Tracey Strawbridge completed the team coming in 274th and 1:42:54. The winner was Oliver Berry of Taunton AC in a new record for the course of 55:41. There were 317 runners.

The Humdinger’s baby sister race ‘The Hurtle’, which follows the first 5k loop of the main race, also took place on Sunday. Katie Davey, accompanied by her dad, Steve, took part coming in an excellent 8th place in 26:32. Steve has had an enforced rest from running but is thankfully recovering but didn’t feel up to the full 9.5 miles. He ran most of the race with Katie beside him but even though Katie has a strong sprint finish, he just had to take off on the home straight. He would never have lived it down if he had been beaten by his daughter! He finished one place in front of her in a time of 26:28. There were about 50 runners.

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Blackmore Vale Half Marathon (08/02/2010)Several Honiton Running Club members took part in the Blackmore Vale Lions’ Half Marathon on Sunday starting and finishing at Bishops Caundle Playing Fields near Sherborne.

Heather Foundling-Hawker led the 8 Honiton runners home coming 2nd lady, 34th overall in a time of 1:25:26. Heather has been swimming more than running recently so was delighted with this result.

Next home was Judy Davey coming 164th and 1:40:11. She too was pleased with the result. Maria Wadey followed Judy in having overtaken her very early on in the race only to be overtaken back before the mile was up. Maria obtained her half marathon personal best last year at this race but was slightly off the mark this year coming 195th position in a time of 1:43:35. Maria was not too disappointed as she knows her fitness level is not quite as good as 12 months ago.

John Burgess was running the race for the 5th time and was pleased to finish this year as last year he had to pull out. He hasn’t raced since November so was pleased to be able to keep his pace going the whole way round. He had a battle with Simon Hall who was in his sights from about mile 2 but only managed to catch him at the top of the hill in mile 6, when he was chatting to another runner. That would have been that for the Simon of a few months ago so John was surprised to see him surge past at 8 miles. John was going as fast as he could so his only hope was to try and stay in touch and hope he would fade. He caught him again just before 10 miles and they finished in that order. John’s target was 1:48 so was pleased to finish in 1:46:08 and 224th position even though it was his slowest run over this course but as he said, you can't fight age forever. Simon finished 247th in 1:47:30.

Claire Pomeroy was next home 333rd in 1:54:58 followed by Brenda King who doesn’t get to take part in local races much as she lives too far away. She finished 417th in 2:02:57. Olivia Higginson completed the team finishing 507th in 2:21:45.She was happy with her race until about 8 miles when her legs started objecting but she was pleased she had made the journey. She was 507th in 2:21:45. There were 531 runners.

Also out on Sunday were Milan Goc and Nick Bradley-Carter who both took part in the fast and flat Fulfords Five at Exmouth. Milan was 41st in 33:04 and Nick was 121st in 38:27. Very creditable results for both men. There were 259 runners.
Tony Whiteley took a trip to Dawlish to take part in ‘Oh My Obelisk’ which is 10 miles run from Dawlish Leisure Centre to the Obelisk monument in Haldon Forest and back. Mostly run on green lanes, forest tracks and country lanes, it is hilly and muddy but Tony was delighted with his time of 1:48:44 which was 10 minutes quicker than 2 years ago. He was placed 104th out of 156.  

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East Devon Junior Cross Country (24/01/2010)The Sidmouth Running Club leg of the East Devon Junior Cross Country Series took place on Sunday in glorious sunshine. The race was held in conjunction with the South West Vets Cross Country Championships in Sidmouth. The course was a mile long lap around The Byes with different categories completing an appropriate number of laps.

Honiton Juniors had a fantastic turnout with 16 taking part including several younger siblings. The Under 11s and Under 13s set off together with the U11s running one mile and the U13s completing 2. Huw Williams and Arthur Heeler-Frood came 2nd  and 3rd in their race and sisters Lily and Isabel Helston both came 1st in their respective category. Ed Cannings did well considering he thought he had been completing a warm up lap! He would have run so much faster!

Times and overall positions were: U11s – 2nd Huw 7:12, 3rd Arthur 7:43, 4th Isabel 7:44, 7th Max Helston 8:12, 10th Ella Harvey 9:21, 12th Ed 9:58

U13s – 3rd Lily 14:46, 5th Jake Harvey 15:47 

Kieran Anderson and Kieran and Jack Lovegrove also took part but we are still awaiting results.

Next came everybody else’s race with Honiton juniors all running as Under 15s and completing 3 miles racing against adults who were completing either 4 or 5 miles. Sam Urqhart and Reuben Heeler-Frood showed their usual fine form coming 3rd and 4th in this race. Katie Davey and Sophie Keywood also did very well coming 2nd and 3rd in their category. Josh Turner who has recently returned to the Club after taking sometime off to concentrate on cycling finished very convincingly in 6th place overall.

Times were: Sam 22:59, Reuben 23:14, Josh 25:31, Katie 27:51 and Sophie 28:29

Huw’s Dad, Paul, completed the Honiton contingent taking part in the adult race completing 5 laps in a time of 41:51 and 15th place. Richard Drage of Tavistock AC won this race convincingly in 32:29 after lapping several runners.  

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East Devon Way Relay (18/01/2010)Honiton Runners took part in the brand new East Devon Way Relay organised by Axe Valley Runners last Sunday. The race had the threat of postponement due to the wintry weather earlier in the week but the day turned out to have race perfect conditions with the sun coming out and managing to offer a bit of warmth. Honiton entered 2 teams joining the 12 others coming from as far afield as Plymouth and Maiden Newton.

The relay consisted of 12 legs with each team member running three of them. It began in Exmouth and finished at Lyme Regis following the whole length of the East Devon Way; a distance of just over 42 miles. Other places visited included Lympstone Common, Higher Hawkerland, Harpford, Farway, Northleigh, Colyton, Musbury and Uplyme.

The first Honiton team was made up of Tim Legg, Ceri Oak, Judy Davey and Fran Bond. They came 7th overall and all managed to find their way without deviation! It must be a first for Honiton. They finished in a time of 5 hours 39 minutes, 44 minutes behind the winners Exmouth Harriers who finished in just under 5 hours. Axe Valley Runners themselves came in 2nd  and 3rd. The Honiton team changed positions several times with rival club Plymouth Tri and both Judy and Ceri watched different members of that club take a wrong turn. Tempting as it was to let them continue, the ladies called them back and were then paid back by being overtaken by them! Plymouth managed to finish just 3 minutes ahead of Honiton. The ladies are just too kind! The team were driven to changeover points by John Burgess who organised both teams very efficiently although he did forget his mobile phone and more importantly his flask of coffee!

The other Honiton team consisted of Greg Axsel, Gary Enticott, Jill Wood and Brent Dicks with support from Roger Saunders who ended up running 4 of the legs in an attempt to keep Jill and Brent on track. Greg had tried to walk one of his legs the previous day and found it impossible because of flooding of the River Coly but he had alerted the organiser who assured him that this had happened because of a high tide and wet weather conditions and the level had dropped considerably. Nevertheless, Greg and others who ran Leg 9 still found themselves up to their waist in water. This Honiton team also managed to keep largely on track although Gary did circle the top of the hill on Leg 10 a few times but insisted he didn’t actually get lost. They came 12th overall finishing in a time of 6 hours 43.

This was an exceptionally scenic relay through areas of outstanding natural beauty and was extremely well organised. Congratulations to Axe Valley Runners for once again managing to organise an event that finishes by a pub and fish and chip shop. Most appreciated by many of the competitors!

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First Chance 10K (03/01/2010)South West Road Runners’ First Chance 10k is a two lap course along the paths and cycleways by the Exeter Canal and the River Exe and is a flat, usually fast course. However, last Sunday’s race had some ice to manoeuvre and a puddle to wet the runners’ feet. Some racers could have used this as an excuse for running a slower time than expected but not so for the first three runners home; Kevin Heywood, Tom Merson and Kairn Stone all beat Kairn’s previous course record. Kevin won himself £100 setting the new record at 30:44.

The course was more picturesque than usual with white frosted fields and trees and it was cold enough for the canal to freeze in places. Several Honiton runners took part and all said they could have run faster if it wasn’t for Christmas over indulgence but they were pleased with their runs taking this into consideration.

Paul Davey led them to the finish in a time of 40:02 and 56th place with Bruce Strawbridge next in achieving a personal best time for the distance of 43:21 and 92nd place. It was good to see Jill Wood make an appearance racing as part of her training for the London Marathon this year. She completed in 57:31 and 327th place. Other Honiton runners were 118th Judy Davey 45:22, 246th Nikki Campbell 52:07 and 400th Tracey Strawbridge 1:02:42. There were 464 finishers.

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Blackdown Beast (01/01/2010)After a very successful running of the Blackdown Beauty last July another run in the Blackdowns has been planned at the end of the month on Saturday 30th January. The Blackdown Beast will be a very social, self navigated run and will begin at the Royal Oak at Dunkeswell at 10.00am. The runners will follow a picturesque cross country route of 6.3 miles on seldom used footpaths to Smeatharpe. Here they will enjoy a pasty and mulled cider on the terrace at the beautiful garden at Springdale as a reward for their hard work. The next leg of the run is 2.8 miles on lanes and country which drops down to the village of Upottery and the Sidmouth Arms which will provide more sustenance to the runners before the take the road to Rawridge. They will then turn on to the country and across the river Otter and climb to the top of the ridge to the viewpoint above Luppitt for a spectacular panorama of the surrounding countryside before running the remainder of the 3.3 miles to the Luppit Inn for another refreshment stop. The last 2.4 mile leg of the day is on road up and over Luppitt Common past Lakeview Manor to Dunkeswell for a well earned drink and meal. Entries for the event cost £6 which includes a map and refreshments at Smeatharpe. Please send to Nick Thorpe, Flays House, Lower Cheriton, Payhembury, Devon. EX14 3JJ. Any enquiries can be made by email to .

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