TWENTY-TWO runners from Tavistock Athletic Club took part in the annual Bideford 10km road race on Sunday May 22. This year the popular race incorporated the Ross Shield Challenge which is open to all Devon clubs and has a history dating back nearly a century, boosting the entry. The race starts in the heart of the town, going out to Instow by road before returning along the old railway track, a relatively flat fast course when the weather is conducive. Under darkening skies, starting in relatively cool conditions the heavens opened during the run, but undeterred the Tavistock athletes packed well at the sharp end of the pack. Notable performances were recorded by Richard Drage, 6th overall (1st vet 45), Adam Holland 14 (1st junior man), and Steve Groombridge 23 (2nd vet 50). Well supported by Chris Champion (22), Tony Symonds (27) and Alan Herdman (67). This enabled the club to finish as bronze medallists in the Ross shield behind hosts Bideford AAC and SWRR, a position which might have been higher but for the injury to James Cole, who could only jog home a distant 158th. Many Tavistock runners are reaping the benefits of their winter and spring training. They are building a strong reputation on the road running scene in Devon with strong representation across the spectrum of age categories. Other fine performances were achieved by Fiona Dunn (3rd SL), Dave Chanter 70, Make Lewis (2nd vet 60), Adrian Bower (124), Nicole Henyet (8th SL), Ian Peacock 151, Jeff Led 156, Anthony Shearer 171, Trevor Williams 198, Andy Smith 220, Steven John 242, Dotty Allan 288, Shenda Johns 313, Ann Woodhouse 326, Karole Champion 329.