Exeter 10k River Run
3 ORC’s took part in the Exeter 10k River Run on Friday evening. The route follows the picturesque route along the River Exe, so traffic-free and flat.
It was however 26 degrees, so quite a challenge for the runners. Mark Peck was the first of the trio home in a time of 40:40, third in his age category. He was closely followed by Andrew Vernon in 40:43, first in his age category and Paul Evison in 1:00:34.
Marathon du Mont-Blanc – The Young Race
On Saturday Luke Stannus was in Chamonix for The Young Race which is billed as the world’s premier trail running event for young athletes.
There were two separate courses depending on age category, (U18 and U20) both starting and finishing in Chamonix.
Luke competed in the 12.9km race which had 1,296m of elevation. When the race started it was 29 degrees and a third of the way round it started raining and thundering which made it even more challenging. Luke found the race tough, but enjoyed the challenge of running in this world class field and came home in 42nd place in a time of 1:52.
Boscastle Scramble
On Saturday Claire Watkins was the sole ORC in the Boscastle Scramble. Keely Phillips had entered, but sadly was injured, so she took on marshalling duties instead!
This race is 26.2 miles along the North Cornwall Coast path from Rock to Boscastle, including some hefty up and downs through Polzeath, Port Isaac & Tintagel.
Claire said it was the ‘toughest marathon I’ve done!’ The 6500ft of elevation was brutal in the heat. Her shoe fell apart, which made for some interesting running with the sole flapping, but she wasn’t giving up! Some glue at CP3 saved the day and she was very happy and surprised to finish as 3rd lady and 12th overall in a time of 6:26:53.
Tintern Fete Hill Race
Rob Gooding took part in this hot and hilly 4.2km race on Saturday at Tintern, Monmouthshire. The course starts and finishes in the main fete arena, crossing the Wireworks Bridge, heading up steep stoney paths onto a forestry road to the Offa’s Dyke path, then descending via the narrow, steeply undulating Shorncliff Climbers Path.
He says he would have been on the podium if he hadn’t invited two fast friends along who beat him!
Lundy Island Half Marathon
3 intrepid ORC’s took part in this race on Sunday, Ian Duffield, Garry Wallace and Louise Chancellor boarded the Lundy ‘Raceboat’ which departed from Ilfracombe harbour to transport entrants to the island for the 12:15pm start.
It’s a unique trail running experience with 13.5 miles of pristine, wildlife-encrusted tracks and trails, tended by the Landmark Trust.
During the race runners visit all four corners of the island, traversing the technical eastern coastal trail, the undulating western clifftops, clinging to the precipitous slopes before running along the central spine of the island.
They all had a cracking race, saying the scenery was absolutely stunning and a truly magical island with great camaraderie from all the runners. Ian said ‘it was a great day being stuck on an island in beautiful weather with a load of other like-minded people!’ He ran well and came in 9th place in a time of 2:00. Garry was next in 2:35 and Louise finished in 3:06.
Teignbridge Trotters Ladies 10k
Laura Venton headed to Ipplepen for this 10k race on Sunday. The course heads out of the village and into the country lanes returning to the village hall.
Laura said, ‘there were plenty of hills and hot sunshine, but fortunately a welcome breeze as well’. She completed the course in 1:08 and commented, ‘I think I’ll look for a nice flat canal run for my next 10k’!
Tarka Trail 50k
Robert Richards tackled the Tarka Trail 50k from Barnstaple to Watergate and back in perfect running weather on Sunday.
He had not run a competitive Ultra since Covid. He managed a sub 2hr 20k which was his first goal. He tried for a 3hr 30k – but soon realised it wasn’t going to happen, so he then just hung on until the end and completed it in 6:26.
It was an unusual way to spend his birthday – but he was pleased to receive a massive medal for his achievements – well done Robert and happy birthday!
