SEVEN runners from Tavistock Athletics Club assembled in Saltram Park near Plympton, along with some 200 others, to compete in the 5k run organised by Plymouth Coasters.

The evening was glorious – dry and warm. Earlier in the day, TAC member Gavin Punchard had battled for 32 miles, 674 yards in the cold, through incessant rain and strong winds, to complete the Dartmoor Discovery Ultra Marathon, in an excellent time of 4hours 44minutes and 10seconds, finishing in 23rd position.

The Saltram course is set on wooded paths which descend to the estuary, giving a long pull up to the finish. Jo Meek had another outstanding run, being first lady to finish, in 14th position and also set a new club record, knocking 25 seconds off Heather Fell's time for the distance.

Rachel Clay also excelled, being third lady to finish, just more than two minutes behind Jo. Peter Bazley ran yet another fast race to gain second place in his male 50 age group. Jon Meek was next home, followed by Keith Bowles. Keith is training hard for an autumn marathon and he achieved third place in his M60 age group, whilst improving on his 5k club record which he set in 2006. Next to finish was Andy Houghton, running his first 5k event. Last TAC member to the line was Sheila Houghton, winning her age group and setting a new Female 55 club record.

Times were as follows: Jo Meek 18mins 05secs; Rachel Clay 20.13; Peter Bazley 20.56; Jon Meek 21.15; Keith Bowles 22.44; Andy Houghton 24.58; Sheila Houghton 26.49.

Tavistock Athletics Club welcomes new members whatever their speed — see its web-site http://www.tavistockathletics.com">www.tavistockathletics.com for more information or phone 01822 612577.

A new beginners group has started on Tuesday evenings, under the leadership of club coaches Trevor Williams and Steve John. To ask for details call Trevor on 01822 615197.

Marathon runner Adam Holland is Tavistock Athletics Club athlete of the month for June.

Adam, aged 22, has recently completed the Brathay 10 in 10 Challenge in the Lake District.

He set a new world record by completing the ten marathons in ten days in a total time of 32hours 47minutes, averaging 7mintues 30 seconds for every mile – an amazing achievement.

Adam is totally dedicated to his running and is over half way towards his aim of being the youngest person to complete 100 marathons, thus earning a place in the Guiness Book of Records.

On Saturday he finished 11th in the South Devon Marathon in a time of 3hrs 18mins 27secs before winning the Chesil Coastal Marathon in 3hrs 12mins 02secs.