IT has been a busy few weeks for local running club Tavistock Run Project. Firstly, the results from last week’s aptly named: Tamar Trails, ‘Rollercoaster’ which was an undulating trail race, through the picturesque location of Gulworthy’s Tamar Trails. Competing for TRP was Rachael Malthouse who ran a really strong, gutsy race to finish fourth female overall in a great time. Also representing TRP, in his debut for the club, was Don Ladell. He also ran a great race battling all the hills and trails. 

This weekend the TRP team were out in force at the Devon Cross Country Championships, which is incorporated into the series of local cross county races called the Westward League. The race was held in a large park and wood near Exeter Arena.  

First up, were the women and despite all the runners running an unexpected extra 1km lap, due to a marshalling fault, the TRP ladies held on strongly.

First TRP lady home was Samantha Lake achieving ninth place overall and a Devon Championships silver medal in her age category of veterans 35; she was closely followed by Rachael Malthouse who finished in 10th place and fifth in her age group. next up to complete the trio of ladies was Vicky Moore running a really strong race to finish high up the field. 

Following on from the women’s success — the men’s race was set to be an exciting event. Representing TRP at the Devon Championships were Jordan Andrews, Jim Cole, Ben Neale and Sam Hortop.

The men gave it their all. Jim Cole was first TRP male to cross the line in ninth place overall with Jordan Andrews close behind in 10th. Followed by Ben Neale in 17th and another debut TRP racer; Sam Hortop, also finished strongly to complete the male quartet.