TAVISTOCK Athletic Club had a strong turnout on Saturday, despite the freezing conditions for its monthly 5k run called ‘5koolRun’.

Seventy runners from as far away as Tiverton and including Plymouth and local club runners and fun runners, took part.

The run starts on the track at Tavistock College, before following the perimeter fence of the college and then going into the Meadows. After a loop of the paths in the Meadows the runners return via the same route. The flat course allows fast times to be set – with seven runners breaking the 20 minute barrier (14 runners broke 20 minutes in last month’s run due the slightly better weather).

The race was won by Tavistock AC athlete Olly Smart in 16 minutes 34 seconds – just one second slower than his run last month, from East Cornwall’s Marc Smerdon. Third was John Porter from Plymouth Harriers. Three new age category records were also set, by Jasmine Stone (U15 girls, 19.39), Caroline Steven (female 50 veteran, 21.20) and an incredible run by Barrie James as a male veteran 80 year-old finishing in 42.03.

The local couch to 5k group, Tavy Joggers used the event for the completion of their 12 week course. More than 20 of them successfully completed the distance with big smiles and proving that they are on the road to a fitter, healthier lifestyle.

The next run will be held on Saturday, January 20 starting at 9.15am from Tavistock College. Details from www.skoolrun.events