THREE hundred and thirty three runners braved the elements recently to take part in the annual Tavy 7 mile road race which followed a scenic route across Plasterdown and then winding through Sampford Spiney before returning to the start.

It was organised by Tavistock Athletic Club which is grateful for the support of many local runners, especially those from Bere Alston Trekkers.

There was a downpour just as the runners were getting ready to start, but it soon eased, and they had a dry if windy run thereafter.

The winner was Robert Orton, repeating his success of last year, running for Exmouth Harriers in a time of 38 minutes 4 seconds. Second was Jack Lawson of Tavistock AC in 41.26, and third Matthew Brown of Erme Valley Harriers in 41.37

First lady home in an excellent time of 44.36 was Ellie Sutcliffe, also of Exmouth Harriers, so they completed the double. Evergreen Anne Luke of Tamar Trotters was only just behind in 44.58 with Rachel Baker of Exeter Harriers third in 45.40.

The age group winners were as follows — male 40: Gary Vernon, unattached; M45 Robert Leeke, South Devon AC; M50 Guy Boswell, Plymouth Harriers; M55 Steve Baker, Tamar Trotters; M60 Ivor Earl, Tamar Trotters; M65 Mick Edwards, Sparkhill Harriers; M70 John Barrett, South Devon AC.

For the ladies, the Female 35 winner was Hannah Bown of Exmouth Harriers; F40 Caroline Gentry, South West Road Runners; F45 Fiona Phelps, Tamar Trotters; F50 Kerry Bell, South Devon A.C.; F55 Anne Luke, Tamar Trotters; F60 Mary Ostle, Plymouth Harriers; F65 Christine Le Flem, Tavistock A.C.

The men's team prize was easily won by Tamar Trotters who had their four counters in the first 11, with Plymouth Harriers second, and Plymouth Musketeers third. The ladies team competition was much closer with Exmouth Harriers beating South Devon AC by just 2 points, with Tamar Trotters third.

The full results can be see on the race website http://www.tavy7.com">www.tavy7.com

Seventy-five mums, dads and children took part in the 1.5 mile Fun Run, with Tavistock AC junior members storming round the course to take the first 3 places. First was Charlie Shipton in a time of 9.58, second was Sarah Bull in 10.06 and third Joe Dix in 10.25.

Because of half term only two local schools entered teams for the Tavy 7 Cup which was won again by Kelly Preparatory, by just four points. Charlotte Harris, Clara Bowles, Pippi Harris and Emma Bowles represented Kelly with a combined score of 119, ahead of St Peters with 123. Their team was Joe Dix, Tom Brown, Eva Brown and Emily Sleep. The times of the first 25 to finish are also on the http://www.tavy7.com">www.tavy7.com website.

The club wishes to thank many organisations and people for making the event a successful one — sponsors Gibbs Kirby and Louise and Jason Shipton, Abbey Garden Machinery, the Round Table, Brooks Running, Premier Foods (Ambrosia), Tavistock Scouts and Kathryn Hayman for providing a massage service, and all the members and their friends who helped.