THE first of a five-race 5k series was held in the grounds of Saltram House, Plymouth last Wednesday evening.

The series is hosted by Armada Athletics Network which aims to develop athletics in West Devon and East Cornwall. There are no prizes, but an accurate time is guaranteed, so the series is useful training for runners.

Ten members of Tavistock Athletics Club competed, but it was the younger club runners who were to excel. All were placed within the top third of finishers, putting in some excellent performances.

Tom Lawson ran a storming race, being first TAC to the finish and second overall in 17minutes 42seconds. His brother Jack finished only six places behind in 19.02 and Ralph in 21.14 – a fine performance by the Lawson boys.

But the females were most not outshone. Emily Attfield was right up there among the fast men for the entire race and was second female to finish in a very fast 20 minutes, giving her a fine start to the series.

Alice Rogers knocked off well over half a minute from her previous best time for the course, to be fourth lady to finish in 20.52.

Among the adults competing, special mention must be made of Caron and Graham de Val, both running their first race for the club.

TAC times were as follows: Pete Bazley 22.16, Caron and Graham de Val 28.47 and 25.05. respectively, Sheila Houghton 27.35, John Windermer 29.00.