ON Sunday stalwart members of Bere Alston Trekkers (Bats) put on their trail shoes for their first attempt at the 'Oh My Obelisk' race in Dawlish.
Dotty Allan from Bats said: 'This hard, 10.8-mile course takes in lanes, woodland trails and open fields. It includes some of the county's prettiest countryside.
'The outward leg contains a few undulations but it is mostly a punishing uphill slog made even more draining by thick mud underfoot.
'Just when you're thinking that it can't get any steeper, a marshal directs you up a near-vertical bank between the conifers. More than one runner resorted to an undignified, four-limbed scramble at this point.
'Eventually, at the six-mile mark, a soggy carpet of fallen pine needles leads you to the hilltop obelisk that inspired local running club the Dawlish Coasters to create the event.
'There is just time to take in a gorgeous view of the estuary and surrounding countryside before turning for home. If you've any strength left in your legs, there are some exhilarating downhill scampers to enjoy on the return journey.'
Laurence Sargeant was the first male Bat home and Mary Sargeant was their first lady and also first in her age group. All other Bats ran excellent times and enjoyed the event.
Bats next race will be the Plymouth Hoe 10, in February.