TAVISTOCK's extra-ordinary long distance runner has done it!

Adam Holland has smashed the world record of becoming the youngest person in the world to complete 100 marathons after his run on Saturday at the Eden Project in St Austell, Cornwall.

Adam, 23, who is a member of Tavistock Athletic Club, told the Times: 'I would like to thank all the people that support me not just at Eden but at all the other events. I owe you a big thank you, having all your support has made the last two and a half years super.'

He has smashed the former record held by Steve Edwards at the age of 28, when he crossed the line at the Eden Project marathon in Cornwall. Adam led the race until the 22nd mile.

He said: 'I didn't go there to race, I just wanted to finish my 100th marathon. It was a bonus finishing second overall, with a time of 2hrs 57mins 03secs which was my 15th out of the 100 marathons under 3hrs.

Adam added: 'It feels great to be the youngest person to have run 100 marathons, although everything's still sinking in. The course was very hilly but there are some fantastic views and I enjoyed taking in the scenery. I would like to say well done to Duncan Oakes, 45, from St Austell, with a time of 2.55.16 for becoming the overall winner in the full marathon and of course to everyone that took part in the marathon and half marathon.

The athlete started his 'quest' in Oxfordshire on October 16, 2005 Adingdon in a time of 3hrs 36mins 31secs before he entered the London marathon the following year in 2.51.56.

His trail of marathons and other long distance runs include the Walt Disney World Marathon in North America, Snowdonia, the Blackpool, the Neolithic, Isle Of Wight, Brathay Windermere, Perth (Australia), the Votwo Atlantic Coast Challenge and the Dartmoor Vale Marathon.

n The star runner encourages young runners in his footsteps by joining him at the Meadows Park Running Group in Tavistock.

For those aged 15 plus just meet at at the green hut in the park; cost for the first session is free and then the next 10 session are £2 each.

For those aged between 5-15 there is also a session on Wednesday at 5pm, again meet at the green hut. The cost is free.

'Get running! Come and join our social running group designed for any age, size, shape or ability,' said Adam.

For further details call Adam on 07810441709, or Mhairi McCall on 078911 93935.