MEMBERS of Tavistock Athletic Club have competed in three local races recently.

First up was the Plymstock Road Runners 10k race in the grounds of Saltram Park.

Under-17 junior member, Samuel Lane De Courtin was the club's only representative among the 90 finishers, but what a race this was to be for one of TAC's most gifted young athletes! Sam won the race in 41minutes, 11seconds, exactly a minute in front of the next competitor home. Averaging less than 6½ minutes to run each mile, this was a truly magnificent result. Nobody wins a race without giving it every ounce of effort and Sam and his club coaches should be very proud indeed of his achievement.

A few days later, Paul Marshall was in the similar position of being a lone TAC entry, this time in Exeter in the last of a monthly summer series set alongside the Exe over five kilometres. Paul was determined to gain a gold standard for his age/time, and this he achieved, finishing in 21.52. This result gives Paul an overall Gold Award in his M55+ age group, a very well-deserved and hard-earned accolade.

The following weekend, six club runners undertook the challenging 7.5mile Ivybridge Beacon Challenge. The race is set off-road, on woodland and moorland paths and includes the ascent of Western Beacon.

Martin Exley made a very welcome return to the club contingent and was first TAC home. Running strongly, Amy Kiteley was first club female back, closely followed by Paul Waldron.

Andrew Alcock, who has seen his fitness improve rapidly of late, was next home, followed by Kate Rogers, whose racing confidence is also on the up, and Helen Alcock.

TAC times as follows: Martin Exley 59.56, Amy Kiteley 1.12.53, Paul Waldron 1.14.04, Andrew Alcock 1.23.52, Kate Rogers 1.27.34, Helen Alcock 1.31.53.

The TAVY 7 Road Race, organised by the club, is only a matter of weeks away.

The race will take place on October 21, starting on Plaister Down at mid-day and kindly sponsored by Gibbs Kirby estate agents.

Five minutes later the 1.5 mile fun run starts, and the club is grateful to Active Co for their continued support.