THE sixth annual half-marathon took place at Bideford recently and ten members of Tavistock Athletic Club made the journey.
It was an ideal day for running — sunny yet cool.
There was a field of 275 runners from all over the south west to compete on a course which includes about six miles of the total 13 on the famous Tarka Trail.
Steve Groombridge gave an outstanding performance of 1hr 18mins 10secs, finishing tenth overall and second in his age group.
This was particularly special since he had been sidelined throughout last year with injury.
Second Tavistock runner was Tom Lake in 100th position with a time of 1hr 36mins 54secs.
Next in 123rd position was Bridget Cailey in 1hr 41mins 41secs, fourth in her age group.
In 152nd position was Alistair Loftus in 1hr 46mins 12secs who was using the Bideford run as part of his training for this year's London marathon.
In 174th position was Peter Bazeley, 1hr 49mins 48secs with Shane Wonnacott behind him in 1hr 49mins 59secs. Shane was slower than usual owing to suffering from a blistered heel. Both these men are also running the 'London' this year.
In 216th position was Elizabeth Loftus, 1hr 57mins 7secs who was third in her age group which gained her an award.
Finishing a mere ten seconds behind was Karen Bradfield, and in 225th place was Steve Fraquet in 1hr 58mins 33 secs. Steve was slower than usual owing to cramps.
All Tavistock runners were under two hours for the half-marathon which made a good start for the seasons.
The Tavistock ladies' team got sixth place.