MEMBERS of Tavistock Athletics Club competed in three local races last weekend.

At the eight mile, off-road Autumn Trail Run, at Newnham Park, Plympton,, organised by Plympton Hash House Harriers, the first TAC home, in seventh position, was Charlie Lloyd, in 56 minutes 16 seconds, with son Sam not far behind, in 64.28. David Twine came fourth in his age category a couple of places in front of Sam, in 63.26. Nicole Heryet, Hazel Walker and Liz Vernon finished in 75.42, 79.26 and 79.35 respectively. John Windemer was making a welcome return to racing following surgery and he and Sheila Houghton finished in 92.48.

Bideford 10-miler was a drier affair on road and the Tarka Trail for a flat, fast course. The four TACs contested a fairly strong headwind on their way back into the town. Notable performances were by Andy Houghton, achieving a Diamond award and coming third in his M65 age category in 1.19.12, and Ann Woodhouse who finished in 1.49.58 to win her age group. Claire and Adrian Pitcher both finished strongly, in 1.31.43.

Rebecca Mingo and Pete Bazley were part of a field of 317 at the hilly Eden Marathon. Rebecca finished in 57th overall and was second senior Lady in 3hrs 43mins 47sec and Pete came fourth in his age category, in 3.52.36.

n THE last race of Tavistock Athletic Club's Grand Prix, the Autumn Trail, took place bringing to an end a competition which started in February with the Plymouth Hoe 10 (mile) race.

Twenty three ladies and 28 men competed against others in their age group over 10 races to see who was the most consistent, with their scores for seven races counting.

By winning her age group every time she raced, the worthy ladies winner was Ann Woodhouse with a maximum 70 points. She has had an excellent year winning several prizes in her age group.

There was a tussle all year for second and third place with Becky Mingo on 58 points just pipping Hazel Walker on 57. Both have represented the club well in many races during the year.

The men's competition was close with club stalwarts Trevor Williams and Pete Bazley tying on a maximum 70 points, with Pete beating off stiff competition in his age group. This has been another excellent year for both, with Pete's highlight winning his age group in the Plymouth Half Marathon out of 89. In third place came David Twine on 63 points. David has had a good year being second in the Plymouth Half.

The club would like to thank all members who participated.