TWO Tavistock Athletic Club runners did their town proud in the Highlands of Scotland at the recent Baxters Loch Ness Marathon.

This particular Scottish challenge was the first time for both Adam Holland and Hayley Brant but for each runner for two completely different reasons.

For running phenomena Adam it was his 380th marathon while for Hayley it was her very first - and both enjoyed great success running along the shore of the famous loch.

Hayley tried to take up running in 2009, after never being sporty but she failed and gave up due to shin splints injury.

Bravely, Hayley persisted and seven years later, in September 2016, Tavistock Athletic Club started their couch to 5k programme with Tavy Joggers.

Hayley thought she would give it a go and joined the group. In the two years since, with training and determination, she lost five stone in weight and progressed to run the Tavy 7 in October 2017, the Tavy 13 this year, followed by the Plymouth Half. However she was determined to reach her ultimate goal — the marathon — and just two years after taking up running she achieved her aim when a delighted Hayley finished in a superb 4 hours and 23 minutes at the Loch Ness Marathon.

Hayley said: ‘I was really determined to give it a go – and I was behind a fancy dress runner in a blue dinosaur suit! Well I couldn’t be beaten by that, so I dug in for the last six miles and was really happy with my time.

‘I’d like to thank my coach at Tavy Joggers, Sheila Houghton, and everyone at the club who has helped me get this far.’

‘Marathon Man’ Adam was having a battle at the front end of the race as he chased a podium place. Three runners had broken clear with Adam in third at the half way stage, reached in 1 hour 10 minutes 28 seconds, a minute down on the leader. In the second half Adam overhauled Isaiah Kosegei to finish second in 2.24.24, but could not catch Mohammed Aburezeg who finished 1 min 30 secs ahead.

Nonetheless Adam was delighted with his new personal best, previously having run 2.27 in Paris last year.

Adam can surely claim to be the fastest marathoner from Tavistock ever.

Chairman of Tavistock AC Alistair Kinsey said: ‘In 2017 the club awarded Adam the honour of lifetime membership. We recognise his athletic achievement and this marathon adds to that amazing journey. However, we also recognise that Adam is a great contributor to the sport – he’s generous with his time, always encouraging and helping others and proud to wear his Tavistock AC vest across the globe.’