MANY of your readers will have read about the forthcoming Tavy 13 and will shortly be seeing notices and road closure warning signs associate with the race.

For many people this will be a day to remember. We know we have a large number running a half marathon for the first time. It is a long way to run - almost equivalent to running into Plymouth from Tavistock and first timers completing the run may feel a new found confidence that may last them all their lives.

There is also an associated Primary Challenge for young people of junior school age. This is a shorter run but they will feel part of the event and it will surely have a lasting positive effect on them.

Come to watch and applaud the effort. It will certainly be an unusual sight in the town just after 10am and on the viaduct from about 10.15am. Of course, we regret that a small number of people will be inconvenienced by it. The duration of of this in the town will be about 15 minutes but Crowndale road and therefore the recycling centre is closed for a much longer period (9.30am to1pm).

Although the race has been publicised far and wide, we have aimed to make it a community event with the feel of a carnival. Be at the school around 11am; watch the finish, and listen to the drummers playing as the runners start to come in. If you have never watched a race live you will be amazed at the speed of the leading runners.

Tavistock is a fantastic town and, with this type of event, has the ability to attract good highly motivated people to the area for leisure purposes who may later bring economic growth in the form of business opportunities and jobs. Therefore we are trying very hard to impress these visitors.

There will be over 600 half marathon runners and over 100 Primary Challenge runners along with their friends and families — enough to make it a special occasion and an opportunity for local commerce.

Finally for those that are running – many thanks for your support. For those not involved – many thank for your forbearance. For Mansbridge and Balment – many, many thanks for your sponsorship.

Andy Houghton and Rob Kirby

Race directors