THE Run Exe Team relays took place along the Exeter Canalside with still and cool conditions helping the packed turnout of club and independent runners go for it along the 4K route.
Teignbridge Trotters attended en mass with seasoned campaigners and new recruits taking part. It was Abbie Barnetts, Cheryl Brenda's and Nikki Swans first relays and they did themselves proud. The achievements were many and included team 1st for FV40, 1st FV50, 1st MV50, 1st MV60. In the words of club chairman Roger Hayes, "Not a bad night’s work".
The Great West Half Marathon took place in Exeter. Amongst the many trotters, Pete Kirby finished in 2:13:14, taking 2nd M75 age category which delighted him.
On Sunday 26, three seasoned veterans David Taylor, Bob Small and Alan Kember ran the AJ Bell Manchester half marathon. Bob & Alan were representing the England Masters vs the Welsh Masters and had good races in drizzly rain. It reminded Alan of happy days at university in Manchester back in the 60’s! The massive field of 30,000 starters had good support along the route, Alan’s time was 1:37:25, David's 1:55:13, Bob’s 1:57:12, In the Masters category Alan came 9th M65 category and M75 David came 5th, Bob 6th.
Alan is looking forward to showing off his England vest to the grandchildren. Great fun, and an electric atmosphere in Manchester for the weekend when both football teams were playing in the FA cup final. Not to mention that it was David's first race for almost 3 years since breaking his neck.
On Monday 27, three Teignbridge Trotters, Susanne Westgate, Ed Hounsell and James Saunders travelled to Uplowman near Tiverton to partake in an undulating, low-key 10K race. The weather conditions were primarily dry and cool with the odd heavy shower and a record number of entrants took part in the 3rd anniversary event. James led our trio home, recording a great time of 00:40:39 which assured him of the MV60 award. Susanne was feeling a bit apprehensive before the race due to a lack of miles of late but her fears were allayed, finishing in a highly respectable time.
Ed meanwhile is in the early stages of his running comeback having had a hip replacement! Ed's steady improvement continues, finishing in a superb time. Coffee and cake were on the menu before the presentations. The race was superbly organised by the Harriers and comes highly recommended by our three runners.
Coming up soon is the Teignbridge Trotters flagship race, the Dartmoor Discovery on June 8th from Princetown. The 32-mile epic single-lap road race is highly acclaimed and looks set for another cracker with many top racers taking part in the challenging event. Places may still be available via the club. https://www.teignbridgetrotters.co.uk/our-races/dartmoor-discovery.