RISING young local running star Oliver Smart has been taking the South West cross country scene by storm this winter in his pursuit of excellence.

The 14-year-old Mount Kelly pupil ran his last race for Tavistock Athletic Club before reuniting with his previous coach, Dave Chanter, at Tavistock Run Project. Oliver dominated the under 15 boys’ race in the Westward League Cross Country at Westward Ho!  

He secured his fourth win out of four in the series and consequently will be crowned champion with two races to spare.

This has been a stellar season for Oliver as he has gone through the winter undefeated winning both the Devon and South West under 15 championship. The latter earns him the opportunity to run at the prestigious London mini marathon in April, a three mile race for the countries top young athletes.

Oliver will continue his pursuit of cross country with schools and national championships before turning his attention to the track throughout the summer.