WHILST the athletics calendar has been enjoying a quiet August, the Tavistock Athletic Club committee has been anything but idle, planning the details of two upcoming and always popular events - one for established runners of all performance levels and one for those wanting to give running a go in a safe and supportive environment.

First to kick off is TAC's latest Couch to 5k programme which will take place on Saturday mornings, starting at 9am on September 12. Registration is now open to all (+16) adults who either want to try running for the first time or who are looking to return to running after time away.

Participants will spend 11 weeks, under the support and gentle encouragement of England Athletics qualified coaches and run leaders, taking part in an 11-week programme.

The aim is to take them to the point where they can comfortably complete a 5km course at a pace that suits their capability.

This 'graduation' will take place as part of TAC's monthly Tavy 5k race on Saturday, November 21. Whilst successful completion of the course may be seen as a success, the real hope is that folk might see that running, whether competitive or social, can really change their lives and that they are motivated to continue - either inside or outside the club structure.

All interested should register as soon as possible via the 'Get Into Running' page on the Club website, as spaces will be limited to ensure the best experience for all.

Tavistock AC is also pleased to confirm that their Tavy 7 race, a firm favourite on the local racing calendar, will take place again this year on Sunday, October 25. This 7-mile race takes place on Plasterdown and (apart from the start and finish in a field) is run entirely on the local roads around Pew Tor and Sampford Spiney.

Entries are welcomed from individuals and from the many local running clubs in the southwest.

Numbers are expected to be augmented by the fact that the Tavy 7 will once again incorporate the 100-year-old Ross Shield, a prestigious trophy contested by eligible Devon running clubs.

Entries will be opening very soon once final preparations are complete, and competitors are encouraged to keep checking the event page on the Club's website.

Tavistock Athletic Club as a club was formed in 1985 and now has over 300 members across the Junior (8 years +) and Senior groups. They have a variety of training groups and committed coaches that can cater for all abilities from raw beginners to the more experienced and ambitious athletes.

They pride themselves on being a friendly club and new members, whatever their ability, are always welcome. Also, they are very fortunate in that they have great local facilities for training: – A well-maintained 400-metre track which provides an excellent opportunity for training and hosting track and field events – and of course the surroundings, Dartmoor.

Training sessions take place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings and also on a Saturday morning. The main session, and probably the best one to introduce you to the club, is on Tuesday evening.