THE Torrington Christmas Caper included runners from West Devon, who made their mark on this testing event.
Organisers described the race as the 'perfect pre-Christmas challenge,' and it was billed as one of the most challenging multi-terrain races in the South West, covering about nine miles and featuring as much of the mud, hills, woods, freezing rivers and country lanes that Torrington has to offer.
Three runners from Tavistock Athletic Club took part. Megan Fell, a club coach, and John Harfoot ran together and completed the gruelling course in 95mins, 3 seconds.
Jo Meek, returning to top form and entering the race for the first time, was the first lady to finish in 72.12.
Earlier this month the First Chance 10k race started and finished at Exeter Quay. It's a flat, fast and traffic-free route and offered really good potential for a personal best.
The race was something of a success story for TAC with three first places.
Jo Meek once again excelled, being first lady to finish.
Richard Drage won the male 50 plus age category and Tony Symons was first M45.
Neil Barkell knocked 42 seconds off his 2009 time and George Speak was third male under 20.
Hazel Walker had a hugely successful race. She gained a personal best, finished fourth in the FV35 category and knocked a huge six minutes and 13 seconds off her previous time for the race – a well-deserved reward for all her hard training with the club.
TAC times were as follows: Pete Freedman 32.59, Richard Drage 35.11, Tony Symons 35.28, Neil Barkell 36.12, George Speak 36.27, Andy Vallance 36.34, Jo Meek 36.47, Hazel Walker 50.12.
* TAC always welcomes new members, so if you would like to get fit, run faster or train for a half marathon (the Tavy 13 is coming (See the website Tavy 13.com).
Members meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the new sports centre at Tavistock College, so why not go along and give it a try!
Please phone 01822 612577 for more information.