Devon XC & Wellington Monument

The results of the Brooks Devon Cross Country Championships, which were held in conjunction with the third Brooks Westward League Cross Country event at Exeter Arena, show some outstanding performances by members of Exmouth Harriers.

Out of the seven Harriers who competed, there were four 1st places, one 2nd place, one 4th place and one 5th place, in the various categories. The 1st places went to Cathy Newman (W45), Dave Stone (M35), John Perratt (M70) and Ray Elston (M65). Jim Wyatt was 2nd M65, Jamie Pearson was 4th U17 and Bob Woodall was 5th M55. Well done, everyone!!

Exmouth Harriers also produced some excellent results at the Wellington Monument 10K Race on 21st December. Out of the five Harriers who competed, three won their categories.

193 runners completed the race that was won by Peter Monaghan of Torbay AC in 36:09. Jamie Pearson was 1st U18 and 2nd overall in 36:39 after a fantastic finish that saw him move from 8th place up to 2nd whilst climbing the hill at the end of the race. Well done, Jamie, what a performance!!

Dave Stone was 1st senior man and 3rd overall in 36:40, just 1 second behind Jamie! Congratulations to Dave and also to John Perratt who was 1st MV 70 and 109th overall in 50:00. Andy Kennedy was 48th overall in 44:48 and Corinna Stephens was 174th in 62:24.

A very Happy Christmas to all

Christmas Wallpaper...

Better than a Christmas tree... more meaningful (to us) than a gift. Nike's Christmas Wallpaper. Download it by double clicking on the image... then right click and select 'Set as Background' ... MUCH better than Microsoft's offerings.

Reindeer and Hogs

Last Saturday, after a night of prolonged, heavy rainfall, Sidmouth Running Club, the organisers of the Reindeer Run at Otterton, had to reduce the multi-terrain course from 10K to around 8K due to the very severe flooding. Although the rain had stopped well before the 10.00am start and the weather remained dry throughout the race, the water level on the flooded roads just got higher and higher, for longer and longer stretches, after the river burst its banks and the water poured down through the fields onto the road.

The runner who coped with all the mud and water best to win the race was James Denne of Honiton Running Club in 30:57, beating the other 161 finishers. Jon Croome, the first of the seven Harriers to finish, was 10th in 35:09, just 8 seconds in front of Jim Pyne who was 11th in 35:17. Andy Kennedy was 53rd in 41:15, Lorraine Croome 57th in 41:53, Lissie Lingard 90th in 47:00, Kevin Lingard 105th in 48:07 and Les Turner 119th in 51:12.

Jon and Lorraine Croome were runners up in the married couples category, despite the fact that their accumulated time was less than that of the winners, Steve and Judy Davey from Honiton. The reason was that the cross country scoring method was used where the winner gets 1 point, 2nd two points and so on, and the pair with the lowest number of points is the winner.

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On Sunday, 14th December, Harrier Andy Johnson had an earlier start - 9:30am - for the 49th running of the Hog's Back race, at Guildford, Surrey. After raining constantly all day Saturday, the runners were fortunate to be rain-free and flood-free, but the whole race was run in mist. There were a couple of short, sharp inclines in the first couple of miles, which were harder than the Hog's Back itself - a long drag up from miles 2 to 3.3. They then dropped for the next mile, and around a dozen runners swarmed past him. As the route levelled off, he maintained a fairly steady pace but couldn't maintain this in the final mile along the long entrance drive to the Losely House stately home, which didn't looks quite so impressive in the mist. He finished 96th out of 644 in 54:27 for the 7.9 mile course.

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(LT & AJ)

Christmas Awards (and some races too)

[Les Turner receives the President's Shield from Roland Young]

First, an apology. In last week’s edition of the Journal, the male athlete of the year (2007) was incorrectly named as John Perratt when it should, of course, have been Ray Elston. Apologies to both Ray and John, who has won the award in the past, but not on this occasion.

Fast forward a year to the Harriers’ Christmas Dinner which was held at the Rugby Club last Friday. The event was a massive success, thanks largely to the efforts of chef Jon Bamsey (alias the Club secretary) and all those who assisted him in setting up the tables, preparing and serving all the food, washing up and clearing away afterwards, etc. On behalf of the whole Club, many thanks to Jon, Steve Merry, Phil Crook, Bob Woodall, Phil Bater, Paul Champion, Sammy Merry, Kayleigh, Hugh Marsden (who helped on Thursday, but unfortunately missed the party due to illness), Jono, Laura, Charlotte and Alice.

[The Kitchen Crew]

Many thanks, also, to unofficial compere Phil Crook who again did a great job organising the raffle and making sure everything went with a swing.

The annual awards for 2008 were presented by Club president Roland Young in the absence of chairman Bob Keast, still unable to attend any functions while recovering from his hip operation.
All members can vote for the athletes of the year, so these awards are valued very highly by the recipients. Congratulations to female athlete Julie Gellender and male athlete Hugh Marsden, who have both had brilliant seasons.

This year’s president’s award went to Les Turner for keeping everyone, both inside and outside the Club, informed of all that’s happening, and assisting with the work involved at the Bicton Blister, etc.

The president was able to pass on the welcome news that Michelmores Solicitors, Sidmouth, have very generously contributed £250 to offset the loss that arose from the theft of trophies, etc., which had to be replaced. This means that the Devon Air Ambulance will now receive £250 more, so very many thanks to Michelmores on behalf of both the Club and the Air Ambulance.

Of course, athletics clubs are not just about annual general meetings and Christmas parties and there are a few races to report, as well.
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Wednesday, 3rd December, saw Round 3 of the Ironbridge Runner Winter 3K Series of five events at Exeter Arena on a very crisp evening with temperatures around freezing and a rather slippery track. The winner was Jack Bancroft of Exeter Harriers in 8:55, just 4 seconds ahead of Exmouth runner Tom Merson of South West Road Runners in 8:59. First Exmouth Harrier home was Roger Rowe in 11:48, followed by John Perratt in 12:29, Lee Russell in 12:50, Les Turner in 15:17 and Dave Eveleigh in 15:58.
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The third of this season’s Brooks Westward League Cross Country series of six events took place at Exeter. 137 runners completed the men’s event that was won by K Haywood of Bideford AC in 28:05. The Exmouth Harriers’ contingent was led home by Dave Stone, 16th in 31:12. Next came Hugh Marsden, 58th in 35:02 and Bob Woodall, 106th in 40:05, just 1 second in front of Andy Kennedy, 107th in 40:06. John Perratt was 3rd V60 and 113th overall in 41:11, Terry Oldham 117th in 41:40, Lee Russell 122nd in 42:35, Ray Elston 125th in 43:34 and Jim Wyatt 130th in 45:03. Exmouth’s Jamie Pearson was 5th in 19:04 in the U17 men’s event that was won by T Gill of Tavistock AC in 18:20. 27 runners completed the race.

The ladies’ event was won by K Humphreys of Exeter Harriers in 20:10. Exmouth Harrier Cathy Newman was 2nd FV45 and 12th overall in 21:02, exactly the same time as the 1st FV45. Lorraine Slight was 57th in 25:57, out of the field of 76 runners.
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Last Saturday, Exmouth Harrier Mark Thompson ran “45 miles of sheer pleasure” at the Beacons Ultra race in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park. The route is a real mix of picturesque canal towpath, ancient mining tramroads and high mountain passes. Mark came 10th in 9:27:15 out of the 50 runners who completed the race. The winner was Mark Palmer of Team Tan in 6:38:00.

(LT)

Last Weekend's races...

The Dupain family enjoyed a 340 mile round trip to run 10 miles in Wales on 23rd November. The event they contested was the Sospan 10 miles multi terrain race, held in Llanelli in the beautiful Pembrey Country Park. It started on park roads, continued into pine forests, then along a lovely beach (but very windy!!) and back into the pine forest to the finish.

Chris was the first home in 1:14, followed by Emma in 1:17, then Ben in 1:21 and Nigel in 1:24. It was so nice to meet new clubs and they were all very impressed that a contingent from Exmouth had made the journey to South Wales.

The 11 mile Bicton Blister and its little brother, the 5 mile Blister Lite, did not exactly get off to the best possible start when the trophies, drinking cups, safety pins etc. were stolen on Friday night. We were however extremely grateful to Radio Devon, Gemini FM, Exeter FM and the Express & Echo for their assistance in publicising the theft and helping us in trying to recover the items. But despite all the problems we had on Friday with the theft, we are very pleased that we will still be able to make a healthy contribution to the Devon Air Ambulance.

345 runners completed the main Blister event that was won by Jim Cole of Tavistock AC in1:07:26. The first Harrier to finish after a great performance, Dave Stone, won the award for 3rd man in 1:09:19. Only 3 minutes later in 6th place in 1:12:31 after an outstanding run, 17 year old Jamie Pearson is definitely one to watch for the future.

Adam Miller was 22nd in1:18:16, Jon Croome 29th in 1:20:32, Bob Woodall 103rd in 1:30:05 and Lorraine Croome 151st in 1:35:25. Ray Elston was 2nd V65 and 178th overall in 1:38:47, Lorraine Slight was 202nd in 1:41:33 and Jim Wyatt was 311th in 1:58:27.

The first lady to finish was Helen Dyke of Torbay AC in 1:18:59. The first men’s team was Exmouth Harriers comprising Dave Stone, Jamie Pearson, Adam Miller and Jon Croome. The first ladies’ team was South West Road Runners and the first male vet team was Sidmouth Running Club.

Although only 48 runners completed the 5 mile Blister Lite, the event was very popular in that the ages ranged from 11 to 77! The winner was Ben Trigg of Erme Valley Harriers in 39:53 and the award for 1st lady went to Emma Kiernan of Axe Valley Runners in 44:25. But when it came to age graded performance, 71 year old Exmouth Harrier John Perratt, who was 6th in 45:57, was well out in front with a grading almost 8% higher than the next highest graded competitor in this race.

The Committee would like to thank race director Roland Young and all those Club members who assisted him with setting up and dismantling the course, parking, dealing with late entries, marshalling, manning the water station, timekeeping and producing the results. Our thanks also go to the Exmouth Air Cadets, St John Ambulance, the police and Ironbridge Runner with Helly Hanson for their help and support.

Weekend races and a photo for Steve, Phil, Ray...

The BBC Children in Need Colyton Fiver, which used to be a 10K race but has now been changed to 5 miles, was held on Sunday, 23rd November. The winner was Wayne Stephens of Bideford AAC in 27:32 and 148 runners completed the race. Exmouth Harriers normally have several runners at this event, but on this occasion Lee Russell was their sole representative and was 54th in 37:59.

On Sunday 30th November, the Harriers will be hosting the Bicton Blister, supported by Ironbridge Runner with Helly Hanson. The charity we have chosen to support is the Devon Air Ambulance. There are two important changes regarding this year’s event. First, the venue is Bicton Arena, not Bicton College. Second, as well as the main 11-mile Bicton Blister, there will also be a shorter “Blister Lite” race of approximately 5 miles.

Entry for the Bicton Blister costs £10 attached / £12 unattached, and for the Blister Lite £7 attached / £9 unattached, and both events cost £2 extra for entries on the day.

All members of the Club who are not racing themselves and can help out at the event are requested to contact Roland Young (01395 278455) in advance.

Exmouth Station from the signal box at the other end of the platforms. A very early photograph judged by the height of the chimney on the engine.

The viaduct being destroyed

... and to finish my viaduct postings, here is the whole thing being flattened in the early 1970s. Might have taken ages to build, but it didn't take long to destroy!

AGM & Race Reports

Exmouth Harriers held its Annual General Meeting at Exmouth Sports Centre on Friday, 14th November, in the absence of Chairman Bob Keast, who was unable to attend, having only returned home from hospital the previous day, following his hip operation. All the Club wish him a very speedy recovery and his speech was read out by secretary Jon Bamsey.

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The races hosted by Exmouth Harriers in 2007/2008 started as always with the Bicton Blister, another well organised and well received race, sadly in many ways the last one at Bicton College. We have had a long association with the college, both through cross-country, South West Championships, Westward League and twice the Southern Area Championships, as well as the Bicton Blister.
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The Christmas party at the Manor Hotel was not well supported, but those that were there had a good time. The athlete of the year awards went to Cathy Newman and Ray Elston, with the Chairman's award going to Jan Moulton, who has now migrated south to Australia. She is the longest serving member of the Harriers, and missed by all. This year the party is returning to the Rugby Club, with Jon Bamsey leading the “catering crew”, thanks in advance Jon.
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2008 dawned bright with the Fulfords GWR 5 again being the jewel in the crown, with ever-increasing numbers, and support. The swapping of the start and finish proved a master stroke, allowing the start to clear the roundabout more quickly and the finish allowing a safer environment for the timekeepers and stewards.
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March saw our first ever race at Bicton Arena, the Westward League cross-country. We have for many years hosted the final race in the series, numbers are always down and this year was no exception. The course around the perimeter of the large field was designed by Paul Champion and Roland Young, and a great course it is. Hard yes, but “real cross-country”. We received a few complaints because it has the greatest distances across the Westward league, but more compliments on the location.
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June did not see the Manor Hotel 10k, which had become “just another 10k”. We have over the last couple of years also become increasingly concerned about traffic at this time of year, which prompted the earlier start. What about 2009? Devon Cliffs at Sandy Bay have confirmed their willingness to host a “beach race” on Sunday 7th June (low water is at 13:15), something a bit different!
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The summer flew by, perhaps because it never got started, and then we arrived at Saturday 11th October, which means only one thing in Exmouth Harriers Land, “the Parrett Trail relay”. Every year this event of 6 legs attracts Exmouth Harriers in numbers, this year we had 4 teams, and didn't we do well! 1st for the ladies, 2nd for the men, and 2nd and 4th for the mixed teams. 24 runners plus support crew, a great feat of organisation thanks to Dawn Teed, Steve Merry and Hugh Marsden.
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On 19th October Jenny Timms won the Dart Vale Marathon to become the Devon Marathon Champion, well done Jenny!
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November saw us back at Bicton Arena with the 2nd leg of the Westward league cross-country, greater numbers than last time, and some great races, but it was very cold. Thanks to all that helped on the day.
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The chairman said a big thank you to all the committee members who work so hard on behalf of everyone to keep the club running. He was particularly grateful to Pete Hutcheson and Penny Newton, who although no longer club members still help with timing at our races. Finally, he wished everyone a healthy year, and the achievement of all of their goals.
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Treasurer Paul Champion reported that the financial position of the Club remains healthy, with liquid assets showing a slight increase of around £500 over the year. Steve Merry was once again thanked for his work raising money for the Club through the bonus ball scheme. He was, however, concerned that the number of members participating and the amount of money raised were declining and he appealed for more members to support this activity.
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A proposal to increase the annual membership subscription (for competing athletes) to £28, but with a discount of £5 (to £23) for payment before 31st January 2009 was approved. In the past, members have been given a year to pay their subscriptions, but the fees for affiliation to England Athletics have to be paid in April, regardless of whether or not the members have paid the clubs. So earlier payment by members must be encouraged in order to save the Club money.
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It was agreed that the Club would continue its affiliation to the South of England Athletics Association.
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The management of the Club remains very stable, but Steve Merry, who has done so much to support the Club over the years, now becomes Ladies Team Manager as well as continuing as Membership Officer. Also, there are two welcome additions to the committee, Lorraine Slight and Jamie Pearson. So although only a small club with less than 100 members, Exmouth Harriers is now run by a committee that includes competing athletes with ages ranging from 17 to 65, a span of 48 years! And the Club can accommodate and would heartily welcome any new members who would like to add the benefits of organised coaching and team activities to their running.
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Terry Oldham put forward the idea of Exmouth Harriers hosting a relay race similar to the Parrett Trail Relays, but taking place along the East Devon Way. He suggested that it could finish with a lap of the Imperial Road running track and, possibly, include a social function at the Rugby Club, e.g. a BBQ. The idea was discussed and broadly welcomed, a further suggestion being that the route could be extended by taking in part of the South West Path and having a circular route starting and finishing at the Club.
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Race Reports
Round 2 of the Ironbridge Runner Winter 3K Series of five events was held at Exeter Arena on Wednesday, 5th November and the winner was Tom Merson of South West Road Runners in 8:56. The first Exmouth Harrier to finish was Andy Johnson in 11:17, followed by Roger Rowe in 11:46. Hannah Dupain and Lee Russell both finished in 11:58, with John Perratt next in 12:15. Ray Elston came home in 12:29, 4 seconds ahead of Nigel Dupain in 12:33. Jim Wyatt finished in 13:24.
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The Tavy 7 (miles) Race at Tavistock on 9th November was won by Harry Wiltshire of Tavistock A C in 38:33. Exmouth Harrier Mark Thompson was 50th in 47:02 and 630 runners completed the race.

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No fewer than 13 Exmouth Harriers competed in the Drogo 10 (miles) tough, hilly cross-country race that starts and finishes at Castle Drogo. It was a lovely day for a change, but very slippery in places. The winner of yet another race was Tom Merson of South West Road Runners in 1:00:32, beating the other 415 runners. Well done, Tom!
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There were also some excellent performances from Exmouth’s Jamie Pearson, Hugh Marsden, Pete McKeown and Hannah Dupain. Jamie was 20th in 1:08:49 with Hugh Marsen 22nd (and 3rd V45) in 1:09:02. Pete McEown was 43rd in 1:14:39, Adam Miller 50th in 1:15:57 and Hannah Dupain 112th in 1:24:04. Paul Champion was 124th in 1:25:42, Terry Oldham 204th in 1:34:04, Dawn Teed 243rd in 1:37:52 and Lorraine Slight 256th in 1:39:29. Nigel Dupain came 288th in 1:42:52, Lissie Lingard 293rd in 1:43:33, Kevin Lingard 296th in 1:44:05 and Sue Wilkin 328th in 1:50:47.

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Exmouth Harrier Dave Stone produced a superb performance in the tough Cornish Marathon, where he came 3rd in 2:57:20, just 11 seconds behind 2nd placed Andy Drake-Norris of Tamar Trotters. The winner was Shaun Milford of Newquay Road Runners in 2:45:22 and 213 runners completed the race.

For the train buffs...

Exmouth Station from the ticket barrier, taken in the early 1960s. The houses in Halsdon Road have, of course, hardly changed. Speaking for myself I'd rather look out on the station and railway than a grass bank, as they do now. But the original fence is still there in places.

Last weekend's events

The organisers of the Snowdonia Marathon are extremely proud of all those runners, supporters and staff who took part this year and braved the horrendous weather conditions (the worst in the 26 year history of the race with 60 m.p.h. winds, rain, hail, etc.) to produce a memorable event. The race was won by Martin Cox in 2:44:37 and the 1183 finishers included hardy Harrier Mark Thompson who came 265th in 3:49:42. Well done Mark, and all the other runners!

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Three Harriers took part in the Templer 10, a ten-mile multi terrain race on roads, tracks and fields incorporating the picturesque Stover Park. Paul Samways was 29th in 1:03:57, Adrian Kearns was 31st in 1:04:35 and Duncan Parkes was 59th in 1:11:29. The winner was John McFarlane of Thames Hare & Hounds in 53:19 and 205 runners completed the race.

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The second of this season’s Brooks Westward League Cross Country series of six events took place at Bicton Arena, hosted by the Harriers. 125 runners completed the men’s event which was won by Tom Merson (from Exmouth) of South West Road Runners in 31:03. The first of the Harriers to finish was Hugh Marsden in 44th place in 36:11. Andy Kennedy was 91st in 42:52, just 5 seconds ahead of Bob Woodall, 92nd in 42:57. Ray Elston was 3rd V60 and 106th overall in 45:21 with Terry Oldham 107th in 45:28. Jim Wyatt was 118th in 48:14.

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Jamie Pearson represented Exmouth in the U17 men’s event and was 5th in 25:59 out of the field of 27 runners. The winner was T Gill of Tavistock A C in 24:24.

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The ladies’ event was won by J Burns of City of Plymouth in 27:11. Exmouth Harrier Emma Dupain was 27th in 32:16 and Lorraine Slight was 44th in 35:25. 66 runners completed the race.

It's a Dupain World

Harrier Emma Dupain was very excited when she completed the Cardiff Half Marathon in 1:38:20, coming 938th out of 5796 finishers and beating her PB by 4 mins. The winner was Simon Jones in 1:07:47. Emma and Ben White have continued to fly the flag for the Harriers in Wales. Recently they competed in the Swansea 10k and finished in 52:08. Rather slow, but they completed the race pushing a wheelchair all the way! Rog, the teenage boy who is severely disabled that Emma looks after in the evenings, was thrilled to go so fast in his chair and to get a medal and t-shirt. They started half way back in the starting pack (all runners, not just those with wheelchairs) and were proud that they got all the way round without being overtaken by any other runners!!! Congratulations, Emma, Ben and Rog! You can push me any time you like, I could do with a new PB!

Chris Dupain’s birthday treat was to run the Guide Dog Gallop (organised by Axe Valley Runners) at All Saints near Axminster with his dad!!! It was 7 miles, mainly on roads, finishing across some wet fields. Chris came 6th in 46:14 and Nigel 12th in 51:54. A new run for them both and good except for the rain!!

The organisers of the Snowdonia Marathon are extremely proud of all those runners, supporters and staff who took part this year and braved the horrendous weather conditions (the worst in the 26 year history of the race with 60 m.p.h. winds, rain, hail, etc.) to produce a memorable event. The race was won by Martin Cox in 2:44:37 -- the 1183 finishers included hardy Harrier Mark Thompson who came 265th in 3:49:42. Well done Mark, and all the other runners!

For Steve...

The Exmouth viaduct (seen from the opposite direction on my posting of the 24th September). In 2008, virtually the same view can be seen -- without the viaduct of course -- from my mum-in-law's sitting room in Hometor House (see below)! The building on the right is, of course, still there and hardly changed.
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Dartmoor Vale Races

The Dartmoor Vale Races consist of a fun run, 10K, half marathon and marathon. All the races start and finish at Newton Abbott Racecourse. This is Devon’s only marathon and therefore incorporates the Devon Championship for this distance.

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Jenny Timms became the new Devon marathon ladies champion by winning convincingly in 3:28:03, and it was another 18 minutes before the second lady crossed the finish line. Jenny said “That was quite unexpected. I felt pretty strong all the way around and I’m delighted to win”. Congratulations, Jenny!! The new men’s champion is Alan Ryder of Erme Valley Harriers, who won in 2:48:39. Adrian Kearns was 14th in 3:17:18 and Peter McKeown was 18th in 3:24:04. 107 runners finished the marathon.
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The half marathon was completed by 289 runners. The winner was John McFarlane of Thames Hare & Hounds in 1:10:50 and Exmouth runner Tom Merson of South West Road Runners was 2nd only 33 seconds later in 1:11:23.

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Two Harriers took part in the 10K race that was won by Wayne Stephens of Bideford A A C in 34:12. Mark Thompson was 22nd in 40:25 and Jim Wyatt was 96th in 48:30 out of the field of 357 finishers.

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(LT)

Exmouth Station (RIP)

Where the Sports Centre now stands (and possibly Asda in the future) was once an impressive Southern Railway Station. Demolished to make way for both Marine Drive (the old line to Littleham) and the aformentioned SC together with the roundabout, the old Station was an impressive sight. I remember laughing crowds of Exonians pouring out of the forecourt on the way to the beach -- no-one, unless they were 'rich' could afford a car! We certainly couldn't.

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More of the station when no races to report upon.

(RR)

Honiton 12k

This year’s Honiton 12K race was the last. Next year it will be replaced by a new 10 mile event over an “undulating” one-lap course on quieter roads, with a lot more beautiful rural scenery and a couple of long, flat sections where “enthusiastic” competitors can make up for the more undulating parts. This year’s winner was Adam Carlson of Torbay A A C in 41:02 and the field of 142 runners included two Exmouth Harriers. Adrian Kearns was 14th in 48:38 and Lee Russell was 72nd in 59:23.

Westward League - St. Austell

Last weekend also saw 107 runners complete the men’s category in the first of this season’s Brooks Westward League Cross Country series of six events, at St Austell in Cornwall, including eight Exmouth Harriers. The senior men’s event was won by Tom Merson of South West Road Runners in 31:44 and Exmouth’s Jamie Pearson was 21st in 35:16. Hugh Marsden was 44th in 37:13, Bob Woodall was 93rd in 44:45, Ray Elston was 3rd V60 and 99th overall in 46:15 and Terry Oldham was 102nd in 47:57.

The winner out of the field of 64 runners in the ladies’ event was B Alston of Cornwall A C in 22:35. Exmouth’s Lorraine Slight was 41st in 29:04, Stef French was 3rd LV35 and 42nd overall in 29:17 and K Smith was 64th in 38:15.

Parrett Trail Relay Race

Saturday, 11th October

Results available at:http://www.parrettrace.btik.com/p_Home.ikml

Exmouth Harriers took what must have been their biggest squad in any event for many a year to the Parrett Trail Relay, a well-established six leg trail relay from the mouth of the River Parrett on the North Somerset coast, across Somerset to just over the border in Dorset, close to the source of the river at Winyards Gap. The route is approximately 53 miles long.

This year, Exmouth fielded a men’s team, a ladies team and two mixed teams (out of the total of 28 teams), twice the number the club had last year and they again produced some brilliant results.

The ladies team was awesome and they won their category in only 7:03:18, taking 36 minutes less than they took in winning it last year and increasing their margin of victory from 32 seconds last year to over 42 minutes over 2nd placed Honiton this year!

Their victorius team comprised Julie Gellender (leg 1 – 10.5 miles), Emma Dupain (leg 2 – 7.9 miles), Lorraine Croome (leg 3 – 8.5 miles), Dawn Teed (leg 4 – 8.6 miles), Hannah Dupain (leg 5 – 8.6 miles) and Cathy Newman (leg 6 - 8.6 miles). Julie Gellender, Emma Dupain, Lorraine Croome and Cathy Newman all won their legs and Dawn Teed and Hannah Dupain were both second. Well done, Exmouth Ladies, on a fantastic team performance!!

Twelve teams contested the men’s event and Exmouth, while unable to match the ladies, still produced a great performance, coming 2nd in 6:04:46, only 5 ½ minutes behind the victors Yeovil Town (5:59:17) and over 24 minutes ahead of 3rd placed Trull Troggers. Hugh Marsden (leg 1) and Dave Stone (leg 5) both won their legs and Adam Miller (leg 2) was 2nd. The other Exmouth runners were Jamie Pearson (leg 3), Jon Croome (leg 4) and Tony Hatchard (leg 6). Congratulations to the men’s team.

The first of the Exmouth mixed teams to finish were 2nd in the category. It comprised Adrian Kearns, Terry Oldham, Stef French, Jim Pyne, Paul Champion and Camilla Mathison. Their time was 7:00:55 and the category with 10 teams was won by Crewkerne in 6:49:16. Adrian Kearns, Terry Oldham, Jim Pyne, Paul Champion and Camilla Mathison all came 2nd in their legs.

Exmouth’s other mixed team were 4th in the category and they, too, produced a leg winner (Pete McKeown – leg 6) and a 2nd place (Chris Dupain - leg 3). The other runners were Andy Johnson, Nicky Crook, Lorraine Slight and Sue Wilkin.

All in all, it was a great day out for the club. Well done, everyone!!

(LT)

Portland 10k

South West Veterans 10k Championship

Sunday morning saw the SWV 10k at Portland with Jim, Roger and John representing the Harriers. Jim beat all comers in the V65s (48:14) for the gold (the second gold in the photo was from the SWV 5 mile championship a fortnight ago), Roger the silver in the V60s (40:56) and John the gold in the V70s (47:07). A beautiful, warm day with the Island looking its best. A treat.

(RR - photos MR)

A train... for Ray & Phil

... and anyone else with a memory. Not exactly an unusual picture, you might think, ah, but! This is a photo taken in the early 1960s of a two-carriage train working up the incline from Tipton St. John towards the Bowd and Sidmouth. This stretch of line is now a footpath on which many of us have run. Only around a mile-and-a-half from Tipton to the Bowd, but a treat.

Brixham 10k

The Brixham 10K race on 5th October was won by Kairn Stone of Newham & Essex Beagles, in 33:44. The field of 198 runners included two Exmouth Harriers. Dave Stone, the first to finish, was 8th in 37:12 and Jamie Pearson was 15th in 38:13.

Exeter Arena 3k (Race 1)

Results from a damp and cold evening at the track:

Andrew Johnson - 11:25
Roger Rowe - 11:29
Lee Russell - 12:11
John Parrett - 12:44
Ray Elston - 12:46
Jim Wyatt - 13:37

Our friend from Exmouth (who runs for SWRR) Tom Merson, won the 'A' race in 8:58, lapping some of the cream of the evening's crop.

The second evening of races will take place on Wednesday, 5th November.

(RR)

Littledown 5

The course was fairly pleasant - but a little narrow at the beginning for a fairly large field: suburban pavements and tarmac paths through parks. Well marshalled. Excellent weather on the day for late September. Not flat - it was one of those courses where you notice every little incline because there aren't any real hills, so it ends up feeling really tough but in a more hilly race you wouldn't notice those rises at all.

Andrew Johnson 32:27
Jim Wyatt 37:50 (3rd Vet/65 -- 1st SW Vet 65)

(AJ)

Another train...

It seems my 'train' post excited a bit of interest at a slack time for competition. So here is another of a main-line diesel at Ottery St Mary station in around 1960. Most of the station buildings are still there of course, but the line is long gone. One of my routes down to Budleigh Salterton (12 miles this way) takes in a good deal of the old line, and I always feel the 'breath' of the engines breathing down my neck!

Nostalgia ?

Especially for Ray, and for all (veteran) members of the Harriers... a photo of one of the last trains to come over the viaduct (now demolished) at the end of Exeter Road. As you can see it ran down the incline to the estuary and then on to Exmouth Station (which was a very grand affair then). The line was closed in 1967.

Message from John Perratt

Thanks for the report, Les, but you forgot to mention that you were the First South West Vet M65 in the New Forest Marathon which was the vehicle for the Club Championship. Your medal is on its way!

(JP)

Musbury, Truro & The New Forest

Three Exmouth Harriers really did the club proud at the Musbury Castle Challenge, a tough multi terrain race of just under 8 miles around the hills of East Devon with a nasty climb that starts the last quarter of the first mile. Congratulations to Exmouth’s Tony Hatchard who won the race in 49:23, beating 103 other finishers. Also to Hugh Marsden, who was 2nd V45 and 7th overall in 52:54 and Dawn Teed, who was 2nd Vet lady and 54th overall in 73:08. Tony’s fiancée Lisa James, running for Instinctive Sports, was 48th in 70:51.

Trevor Cope represented Exmouth Harriers at the Truro Half Marathon which was won by Jim Cole of Tavistock A C in 1:14:41. Trevor was 350th in 2:09:13 and 469 runners completed the race.

Exmouth’s Steph French ran well to come 545th in 1:50:08 out of the 1732 runners who finished the New Forest Half Marathon. The winner was Lee Rodriguez of Poole Runners in 1:13:31.

The New Forest Marathon was won by Keith Russell of Reading Roadrunners in 2:39:35. Les Turner finished the race in 324th place in 4:17:40. Although his time was a PB by just over 2 minutes, he didn’t run very well and almost failed to finish. 494 runners completed the race. Les ran 4:17:40... more later

(LT)

Sunday 7th September races

On 7th September, Stan and Joan Mason ran their first race since joining Exmouth Harriers, the Lichfield 10k Road Race, Staffs, on a gently undulating course with some hills between 4 and 7 km, run mainly on quiet country lanes. The winner was Thomas Payn of Winchester and District A C in 31:14 and 753 runners completed the race. Stan was 383rd in 52:58 and Joan was 478th in 55:49.

On the same day, Kevin Lingard and his daughter Lissie competed in The Dartmoor Dash, an approximately 5 mile undulating scenic course over tracks, rough moorland and occasional bogs in the very wet and muddy conditions. Neil Holmes won the race in 32:16 and there were 86 finishers, including Kevin who was 50th in 48:26 and Lissie who was 54th in 49:33.

Congratulations to Exmouth Harrier Dave Stone who continued his recent run of outstanding form by winning the Ivybridge Beacon Challenge in 52:50 and beating second placed Dave Severn of Torbay A C by nearly 2 minutes. His time was a new record for the course, 8 miles off road involving a long, uphill climb to the Beacon, then a gravely track back down to the finish. 122 runners completed the race.

(LT)

Devon 10,000 metres Championship

38 runners braved a wet and windy evening on Wednesday to compete in the Devon 10,000 metre championships at Exeter Arena. The light rain kept the runners cool, but running into a stiff breeze 25 times along the back straight of each lap was more challenging. Tom Merson of South West Road Runners won the men's championship, finishing 7 seconds ahead of John McFarlen in 31:38. Lucy Cartwright's 39:52 ensured her the women's title.

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Full results can be found at http://www.thegreatwestrun.co.uk/images/devon10k_results.xls

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Running in his first after an enforced three week break, Andy Johnson was last in the A race for around 2k... then running on his own (apart from being lapped on numerous occasions!) for the rest of the race. Aiming for kilometre splits of 4:10 and he ran:4:05, 4:08, 4:07, 4:08, 4:10, 4:10, 4:10, 4:13, 4:13 and 4:06. His finishing time of 41:35 left him 20th overall and 3rd of the 3 M45s.

(RR)

Chamonix Challenge...

A quartet of Exmouth Harriers have just returned from a highly successful encounter with Mont Blanc, where the races involved running, walking and clambering over boulders, by day and by night.

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Paul Champion completed the race which started at Chamonix (France) and passed through Courmayeur (Italy) and Champex (Switzerland) before returning to Chamonix (over 100 miles), for the second successive year. He lived up to his name by producing an even more magnificent performance than last year and confirmed that as well as being longer, this year’s courses had been made even tougher by the addition of a massive climb at the end.

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Paul found it particularly hard on the Saturday, when temperatures of 30o centigrade meant that he could hardly eat or drink anything until the temperature dropped in the evening when, fortunately, he managed to pick up several places. Despite this handicap, however, he achieved his objective by finishing 326th out of over 2,300 starters.
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Jon and Lorraine Croome, who completed the shorter but still incredibly hard route which started at Courmayeur and passed through Champex before finishing at Chamonix (over 60 miles), found it very tough and hot. They went round together in just under 25 hours and described it as a very spectacular and very rewarding experience. They really appreciated the great reception all the runners received at the finish at Chamonix.
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Sue Wilkin also undertook the Courmayeur, Champex, Chamonix (over 60 miles) route and she, too, should be very proud of her achievement. As was only to be expected, she found the adventure even tougher than her clubmates, but couldn’t believe how strongly she was able to run the hills. She, too, thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Congratulations to all four superstars, who were a real credit to their club!!

Dartmouth Regatta Road Race
On Saturday, 30th August, Hugh Marsden represented Exmouth Harriers at the 5 mile Dartmouth race, where another great performance saw him come 1st V45 and 7th overall in 31:58.

151 runners completed the race that was won by Peter Monaghan of Torbay A C in 29:37.

The Beast
The next day, Exmouth Harriers Terry Oldham and Lorraine Slight completed “The Beast”, Poole A C ‘s tough, 13-mile multi terrain event that starts and finishes at Corfe Castle, Dorset. The race was won by Mike Grist of Poole Runners in 1:24:43 and there were 486 finishers. Terry was 288th in 2:17:1 and Lorraine was 311th in 2:19:7.

(LT)

Exe 5k Series - Final Race

Last Thursday in the final race of the Exe 5k series, Jim Wyatt beat Mark Waddicor by exactly a minute (23:09 to Mark's 24:09), the result being that Jim was the overall winner of the V65 category in the series (2 wins to Mark's 1). WELL DONE JIM!

There is little doubt that weeks and weeks of work or the track have paid dividends.

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Peter McKeown, also completed the final race and came 2nd V40 in 18:42, and 2nd V40 for the series.

(RR)

Bank Holiday Weekend races

Friday:

On a perfect evening for racing, the Haldon Forest Flyer 4 ½ mile race was won by Ashley Humphreys in 24:57 and included eight Harriers. Paul Samways was 12th in 27:56, Duncan Parkes was 33rd in 31:07 and Hannah Dupain was 35th in 31:12. Bob Woodall was 53rd in 32:27, with Ray Elston 58th in 33:09 and Nigel Dupain 71st in 34:34. Les Turner was 119th in 40:02 and Kevin Lingard was 144th in 46:33. 161 runners finished the race.

Sunday : Torbay Regatta 10k
Dave Stone really excelled in this year's 10k with a excellent 34:48 (7th overall), with Emma Dupain turning in a 45:56 and her dad Nigel Dupain, completing in 46:40.

Monday:

The Dupains were back in action again the following day at the Lustleigh Show 10k. Hannah was 2nd lady in 45:30 and the other times were Chris 47:00, Nigel 51:27 and Emma 51:40.

South West Vets Championship 5k
How can you manage to find a circular course that is uphill in every kilometer? Apart from around a half-mile of downhill running in the second kilometer, that is what faced competitors at Barton St. David (Somerset) on Bank Holiday Monday. And did it tell in the times on a warm and very humid day!

In the Vet/60s Peter Hamilton (Blackheath) easily outpaced Rog Rowe winning by 57 seconds in 19:10 to Roger's 20:07 (his 2nd slowest 5k of all time)! Peter too was way down on his expected finish time.

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Chris Woodcock (Blackheath & Sidmouth) cantered to an easy win in the Vet/65s in 21:49, whilst Eric Barber (Torbay) also won easily in the Vet/70s with a 24:49 showing.

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There were no entries in the V40, V45, V50s from Devon at all -- a real disappointment.

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(RR)

What happened last week?

Despite the awful weather on Saturday, 9th August, 235 runners turned up the next day for the Michelmores’ sponsored Sidmouth Festival 10k Run and their faith in the weather forecast was justified by near perfect running conditions. The overnight rain had made the multi terrain course a bit slippery but this did not prevent a very fast time of 40.07 by the winner, 22 year old Ashley Humphreys from Torbay.

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Dave Stone, the first Exmouth Harrier, had a superb race and finished in 3rd place just 40 seconds behind the winner. Well done, Dave! Next came Mark Thompson, 32nd in 48:40. Hannah Dupain came 55th in 51:53, with Emma Dupain 80th in 53:57. Ben White was 84th in 54:23. Congratulations to Ray Elston who was 1st V65 and 92nd overall in 55:22. Finally, Kevin Lingard came 150th in 62:27.

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120 runners completed the fifth race in the Yeovilton 5k Road Race Summer Series at the Yeovilton Air Base which took place on Wednesday 13th August and was won by Jon James of Wells City Harriers in 15:40. Exmouth Harrier Roger Rowe had his best result of 2008 so far, completing the 5k in 19:23 (6:14.3 pace) for 1st Vet/60. Jim Brumfield (Egdon Heath Harriers) however is getting quicker too, this time Roger beat him by less than 30 seconds.

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As always, it was a great evening with a large (and fast) field - Roger was 36th overall even at that pace, on a lovely sunny evening after a day of rain. There is just one more race in the series on the 10th September, but there is a small matter of the SW Vets 5k Championship before then on Bank Holiday Monday. Then Roger hopes for even more improvement before the SEAA Veterans Road Relays at the end of September.

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On Saturday, 16th August, two Exmouth Harriers competed in the Tywyn, Mid-Wales Race the Train that takes place alongside, as far as practicable, the route taken by the Talyllyn Railway on its journey to Abergynolwyn and back. In order to do this the course uses a mixture of public roads, lanes, un-metalled roads, tracks, agricultural land, and rough grazing pastures. The terrain varies all the time and was rain sodden in places, so the wise runners wore studs. The route also ascends and descends quite steep terrain and runs on narrow footpaths with little chance of overtaking.

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There were 822 finishers and the race was won by Gareth Raven of Sale Harriers in 1:18:15. Exmouth’s Hugh Marsden finished in 1:33:14, 2nd V45 and 18th overall, beating the train in the process. Dawn Teed came 521st in 2:11:32, 4 minutes quicker than the last time she ran the race. Well done, Hugh and Dawn!

Run Exe Summer 5k Series

7:30pm 7th August - Flower Pot Fields

Just 50 entrants for the second of this new summer series, just 5 of us from the Harriers. The course for the 5k is a double loop up and down the river from the FPF Car park, on tarmac and concrete paths, but with several very tight corners - four of 180 degrees and four of 90 degrees. Unfortunately that knocks the pace back quite a lot. Checking my Garmin watch after the race I noticed that my pace was down to 10 minute miles on two of these bends!

Results:Jim Cole of Tavistock won easily in 15:42 30 seconds ahead of Mike Zlotnik from Exeter Harriers.

Harriers results and placings:

Rog Rowe - 17th in 19:40 - 1st Vet/60
Hannah Dupain - 29th in 20:48 - 3rd Senior Lady
Emma Dupain - 31st in 21:50 - 4th Senior Lady
Benny White - 36th in 22:49 - 11th Senior Man
Jim Wyatt - 38th in 23:08 - 2nd Vet/60

Interesting to see that Jim beat arch-rival Mark Waddicor by over a minute, but having come behind him in the first race a month ago. The track work is paying dividends Jim!

(RR)

Bob Graham Round

How about this for endurance? Exmouth Harrier Jon Croome successfully completed the “Bob Graham Round” of 42 Lakeland peaks in less than 24 hours. This is one of the most demanding challenges in England with an ascent of approximately 28,500ft and a distance of about 74 miles. Congratulations, Jon, on an extremely impressive performance!!

(LT)

Wellington 10

The Wellington Ten gives runners a choice of two distances, 10 miles or 10 k. Both races follow similar routes, starting at the Sports Centre and then following a series of undulations through beautiful Somerset countryside. The two distances join again for the finish through Wellington and back to the Sports Centre.
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The longer event was won by Tom Merson of South West Road Runners in 55:01. Exmouth Harrier John Perratt was also among the field of 257 runners and came 1st V70 and 65th overall in 1:13:20.
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It took Philip Parry of Bristol & West A C 34:17 to win the 10k distance, completed by 244 runners. Mark Thompson was the Exmouth Harrier in this event, coming 30th in 43:01.

(LT)

Totnes 10k

A cloudy but warm Sunday morning saw in excess of 375 runners lining up for the Tones 10k race. Included in that number were a gaggle of a dozen Exmouth Harriers. As a novelty a firework, a rocket, was used to get the event underway.

The course dictates a fast start with runners racing around the perimeter of the cricket pitch toward the tarmac path where the course narrows and negotiates a series of right angled bends with central bollards positioned to catch the unaware. The course then follows the route of the river before entering the wooded area. Here there are many hazardous tree routes across the path and numerous areas of leg sapping mud and deep puddles, before the route ascending a steep hill, which even includes numerous steps. Descents were hampered by slippy stone and concrete surfaces, with still more ascents to follow.

The decision as to the type of footwear was immaterial as those opting for road shoes struggled to find adhesion in the mud, but those opting for off road shoes struggled with the twisting sloppy hard surfaces. Neither types of footwear appeared to give an advantage. The temperature was kind to the competitors and the first entrant home completed the race in a blistering time of 35 minutes and 38 seconds, only 9 seconds off the course record.

Dave Stone lead home the Exmouth Harriers contingent if overall 9th position in a time of 38-48, 3rd MV35, followed closely by Shaun Lock immediately behind in a time of 39-06. In overall 16th place finished Hugh Marsden in a time of 40-06, 1st MV45.

Jamie Pearson in his first outing for the Harriers finished in 20th place in a storming time of 40-12. Next Harrier to cross the finishing line in 38th position was Adam Miller in a time of 42-59, followed by Paul Samways in 46th position in a time of 44-13. Jo Darwood finished in 69th position in a creditable time of 46-19, provisionally the 7th female competitor to complete the race.

Bob Woodall wearing number 89 finished in 89th position in a time of 48-08. Ray Elston finished in position 120, to lead home the MV65 category in a time of 50-48, averaging a speed of 8-10.4 minutes per mile. In 153rd position was John Perratt in a time of 53-12 to take the lead MV70 position. Jim Wyatt, just eight positions behind, completed the race in 54-00 minutes taking the 2nd MV65 position. Last but not least of the Harriers was Dawn Teed in 191st position to complete in a time of 55-43.

All members of the Exmouth Harriers performed well on the day over an extremely difficult course which could be, on this occasion, likened to a cross country course and some members completed the race in both praiseworthy positions and times. In fact Exmouth Harriers carried off the team prize due to the brilliant results of Dave Stone, Shaun Lock and Hugh Marsden. A valiant effort from such a small club

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(RW)

Track Intervals

Hi All,

Some will know that the V60 lads have started back on the track on (most) Tuesdays and Thursdays... basically doing 1,500 based intervals (our endurance is pretty well ok, although we do do longer intervals from time to time).

We do 1.5 miles jog warm up -- round the Quay and back -- then normally 4 x 100 metres strides at the pace we will be aiming at that day, the session itself, and finally 1.5 miles warm down again round the Quay.

After yesterday's session (300 metres x 5) x 2 (i.e. two 1,500 meter efforts at 5 minute (k) pace) -- with rests of course -- we wondered if other members of the club might like to join with us.

Our next session is on Tuesday, at 6pm, and will be a 'pre-race' --Totnes 10k the following weekend -- (200 x 5) x 2 again at 5 minute (k)pace (or as close as we can get to it (again with rests to recover). That means for each 200 interval we have a target 40 seconds (we don't always reach it)!! We all agree it's hard work but fun. The last interval yesterday none of us could catch Ray at all... he saved his best till the 10th interval!

No session next Thursday.

Hope a few can join with Ray, Jim, Bob W. and Roger week by week.

Roger R.

Haytor Heller

Five Exmouth Harriers were among the field of 139 runners who completed the Haytor Heller cross country race, approximately 6 miles of tough off-road running in the heart of Dartmoor, starting and finishing below Haytor Rock.

The race was won by Neil Holmes of Erme Valley Harriers in 42:01. Hugh Marsden was the first Exmouth Harrier to cross the finish line in 11th place in 46:44, followed by Paul Samways who was 16th in 48:09. Duncan Parkes was 35th in 53:56, with Jim Wyatt 78th in 62:38 and Dawn Teed 111th in 71:13.

(LT)

Tavy Town Relays ~ Thursday 17th July

Another outing for the Harriers V/60 squad members, this time to Tavistock for the evening relays through the park and around the River Tavy. Always well attended, this year there were 37 teams of 4, with the eastern side of the county being represented by a very hot South West Road Runners squad, in addition to ourselves.

Roger ran the first leg in a solid 6:34 (5:58 pace), handing over to Jim. Always a keen team member Jim did not disappoint with a creditable 7:22 (6:42 pace).

Senior super-vet Ray was our secret weapon on leg three, and he ran a superb leg to finish in 7:00 dead (6:22 Pace - where does he find the gas?).

Les ran anchor, with marathon training in his legs, but held together well with an 8:18 (7:33 pace). Total time 29:14 for the 4.4 miles.

The aformentioned SWRR squad obliterated the field to run 20:26, a new record! Hey, guys, that's inside 4:39 pace for the whole distance, including as it does two very sharp turns and a nasty uphill 300 metres. What a performance! Phew!!

On examining the age-related percentages, it turns out that Ray beat Roger into second place in the squad with 81.29% to Roger's 81.11% ~ what a great run, well done Ray.

Members of the V60 squad (and anyone else who fancies it) will be at the track again this coming Tuesday and Thursday. Two more of their weekly interval sessions seeking to add a bit more speed in their aim for better than their two successive bronzes in the Southern County Road Relays at Aldershot in September.

(RR)

Yeovilton 5k - Race 4

7:15pm tonight - 9th July at the Yeovilton Air Base.

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Only yours truly from the Harriers, but absolutely ideal conditions... light rain, but not cold. Best result this year as I finished in 19:27 (6:16 pace), 1st Vet/60. Not too far away from last year, but a long way from 2005 results. Did enjoy it!

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Heel still a bit sore... but much better than of late.

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First mile in 6:02, second in 6:15, and third in 6:27 (into the wind). The final 0.1 in 43 seconds. Much better than of late, but still a bit too quick over the first kilometer or so.

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(RR)

Erme Valley Relays, Charmouth & Launceston

The Harriers had a great turnout when they sent a large squad of athletes to the increasingly popular 4 x 2 ½ mile Erme Valley Road Relays at Ivybridge, and seven of the 73 teams who competed were from Exmouth.

Despite the weather, Exmouth had a very successful evening, taking three of the 16 team awards. They won both the ladies team categories with their “A” team (66:45) of Julie Gellender (16:35), Emma Dupain (17:21), Jo Darwood (15:44) and Hannah Dupain (17:05), and their “B” team (77:20) of Lorraine Croome (17:34), Katie Comer (19:36), Nicky Crook (20:15) and Lorraine Slight (19:55).

Exmouth also won the men’s V60 team award in 67:01 with John Perratt (16:42), Ray Elston (17:38), Roger Rowe (16:15) and Duncan Linklater (16:26). They have now won this category four years in a row, i.e. on every occasion since its introduction.

Exmouth’s other teams were their men’s “A” (56:10) of Shaun Lock (13:35), Hugh Marsden (14:04), Adrian Kearns (14:54) and Dave Stone (13:37), and “B” team (62:37) of Chris Dupain (15:20), A. Miller (14:42), Ben White (18:26) and Shaun Lock (14:09).

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The men’s V40 team (59:02) was Andy Johnson (15:30), Paul Samways (14:34), Pete McKeown (14:33) and Jon Croome (14:25).

Finally, the men’s V50 team (75:24) with Terry Oldham (18:15), Jim Wyatt (19:06), John Perratt (17:44) and Les Turner (20:19).

Congratulations to the overall winners, South West Road Runners men’s “A” team (52:25) and their anchor man, Tom Merson, who ran the fastest leg in 12:21.

Special thanks go to Exmouth team manager / timekeeper Dawn Teed who recorded the times for every one of her club’s runners, together with the team totals. Subsequently, her quick wits and rapid intervention enabled her to ensure that the trophies for the ladies “A” team, which had been incorrectly awarded to Plymouth Harriers, were retrieved and presented to the rightful winners, Exmouth. Well done, Dawn, for an excellent evening’s work!!

The Charmouth Challenge follows a hilly, multi-terrain course of about eight miles through coastal scenery, including an ascent of Golden Cap, the highest point on the South Coast. This year’s event took place in very wet and windy conditions and it was none too pleasant on the high, exposed ground.

There were 242 finishers and the race was won by Tom Fisher in 52:52. The two Exmouth Harriers, Hugh Marsden and Mark Thompson, came 8th in 57:20 and 31st in 62:50, respectively.

The Launceston Half Marathon, which was won by Kevin Heywood of Bideford A A C in 1:10:18, is fondly known as “the Real Beast of Cornwall” and starts and finishes in Coronation Park, Launceston. Exmouth Harrier Trevor Cope came 262nd in 2:11:18 and there were 327 runners.

(LT)

Forde Abbey XC

On Tuesday evening, 17th June, Exmouth Harrier Mark Thompson competed in the Forde Abbey Cross Country Race, coming 12th in 42:58 out of the field of 205 finishers, after a good performance. The winner was Garry Perratt of Axe Valley R C in 37:17. The weather was fine and the race involved 10 km of challenging cross country through the stunning Forde Abbey Estate, crossing meadows, rivers and woodlands in its idyllic corner of West Dorset.

Inaugural Festival Four - Exeter

113 runners took part in the first inaugural Exeter Festival Four on Thursday evening, 26 June. Starting at the Canal Basin, the route (which was actually 4.3 miles) followed the River Exe to Countess Weir Bridges, returning to the finish at the Canal Basin along the Exeter Ship Canal cyclepath and towpath. Although dead flat, the course was not without its challenges. On the outward stretch, through the Exe flood plain, competitors had to contend with a herd of cows stampeding past runners and criss-crossing the course, while the return was into a stiff breeze.

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Of the four Exmouth Harriers who took part, Pete McKeown coped best with the challenges, finishing 10th in 26:01. Andrew Johnson ran the first half faster than he had planned, having to sprint past the cows before they blocked the course, and as a consequence he found himself struggling later. Although he was able to keep the two leading women (Caroline Hewitt of Tiverton Harriers, 27:04, and Karen Cook of South West Road Runners, 27:22) in his sight along the canal, he was unable to close the gap, eventually finishing 14th in 27:35.

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Ray Elston was 31st in 30:25 and Jim Wyatt finished 54th in 32:33. The race was won by James Bellwar of Exeter Tri Club in 22:54.

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Full results from

http://www.city-runs.co.uk/fest4/images/festive4_results.xls

Torbay Half Marathon

Seven Exmouth Harriers competed in the Torbay Half Marathon which was won by Toby Lambert of Alton Runners in 1:07:21.

Altogether, 1215 runners completed the race and the first Exmouth Harrier to finish was Adrian Kearns who came 42nd in 1:27:48, after an excellent performance. Eight minutes later, after an even better race, the evergreen John Perratt came 1st V65 and 130th overall in 1:35:31.

Next across the finish line were the three members of the Dupain family, Chris 221st in 1:39:41, Hannah 262nd in 1:42:13 and Nigel 447th in 1:49:26. Les Turner was 726th in 2:00:25, just ahead of Trevor Cope who was 744th in 2:01:49.

Of Talaton & Yeovilton

[Escot House -- the Talaton route passes through the Escot Estate]

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The Talaton Trotter, a 6½ mile multi terrain event, largely off-road following fields, footpaths, woods and country lanes, was held on Talaton Village Day, amongst all the other village festivities.

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The race was won by Gary Perratt of Axe Valley Runners in 44:12 and the field of 112 included two Exmouth Harriers. Adrian Taylor was 28th in 56:22 and Tim Gent was 42nd in 58:10.

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Lee Russell represented Exmouth Harriers at the June event of the Yeovilton 5K Road Race Summer Series. The winner was Toby Lambert of Winchester & District A C in 14:47 and 136 runners completed the race.

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Lee started the race rather tentatively, but soon found that he was able to increase the pace to consolidate his position. As the race went on he was able to speed up even more and enjoy the experience of passing runner after runner in the latter stages, coming 61st in 21:15. Although pleased with his performance and the result, he felt so strong as the race ended that he hopes to do even better at his next 5K race.

(LT)

South West Vets T&F Championships

At the South West Veterans’ Track & Field Championships at Exeter Arena, gold medals in all his four events, and setting new championship records in two of them, meant only one thing. Exmouth Harrier John Perratt (M70) is still a top performer in his age group and ruthlessly efficient at destroying the opposition.

In his first event, he reduced the championship record for the 5000m from 20:38.5 to 20:14.9. Then he won the 800m in 2:52.5 before going on to win the 400m in 76.6 secs. Finally, he reduced the championship record for the 1500m from 5:48.9 to 5:35.5.

During the course of the championships, John was also presented with the award to the winner of the South West Veterans’ Road Racing Grand Prix for the best average age graded % over four races. Congratulations to John on a brilliant set of performances!!

Les Turner also took part in the Track & Field Championships, coming 2nd in the 100m (M65) in 17.4 secs and 2nd in the 200m in 37.7 secs.

(LT)

Bampton 10k

At 18.30 hours on Saturday 14 June 2008 the long standing Bampton 10 kilometre road race commenced on a fine sunny evening. The windless, cloudless sky illuminated the runners as they lined up at the start in the picturesque village centre. There was a happy atmosphere hanging over the start line as the runners realised that the proceeds of the entry monies was being donated to the Exeter Leukaemia Fund.

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The starting gun saw Hugh Marsden, Exmouth Harrier, away at a fast pace with the front runners, followed further back in the pack by the other Exeter Harriers contingent consisting of Andrew Johnson, Bob Woodall, Ray Elston and Dawn Teed. Dawn who prefers longer distances was the sole female club entrant.

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The course is run through scenic countryside over extremely undulating lanes around the village of Bampton. From the start in the centre of the village the course immediately rises along the first hill and dwellings are soon left behind in the distance. The only sounds to disturb the birds in the hedgerows, was the slapping of the runners footwear on the metalled road surface, along with the laboured breathing of some of the competitors.

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Hugh Marsden maintained a in close contact with the race leaders throughout and about two kilometres into the race Andrew Johnson, as his norm starting well back in the pack, steadily overtook the middle markers and progressed higher up the positions. Hill after hill was mounted by the runners before descending into the valleys to be greeted by yet another hill.

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Just after the five kilometre marker, approaching the drinks station, a new sound greeted the athletes. The sound of leather on willow mingled with the other country chorus as the runners skirted the local village cricket green which was hosting a match. Much needed refreshing water was taken on board by some competitors as they faced the homeward stretch of the race.

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As the nine kilometre marker approached the last long hill stretched into sight before the final fast down hill stretch into the finishing lap of the football pitch.

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Hugh Marsden romped home in 11th overall place in a respectable time of 37 minutes and 19 seconds just two and one half minutes behind the ultimate winner, Peter Monaghan of Torbay Harriers. Andrew Johnson finished in 37th place in a time of 42 minutes and 11 seconds followed by Bob Woodall in 64th position in a time of exactly 45 minutes. Ray Elston finished second in the over sixty age category in a respectable time of 46 minutes and 9 seconds, in an overall position of 74th out of 214 finishers. Dawn Teed completed her valiant race in 122nd position in a time of 50 minutes and 54 seconds.

(RW)

A week's races...

Andrew Johnson ran the Michelmores 5K on Wednesday night. This is a difficult course, with lots of turns and a couple of nasty short rises, so he was quite pleased with his time of 20:44. (And according to his Garmin, it was a little long!) He was 35th (in the under 50 category - 39th overall), after losing a few places on the descent to the entrance to the Imperial.

Then Andrew travelled to Plymouth on Saturday for the Saltram 5K. He reports, "legs felt like lead after Wednesday and wandering round the house and garden during the afternoon. The course takes you downhill for about a mile before the stretch along the river and then the final long drag and I was quite pleased about how I managed to hold onto a decent pace until the final, steeper climb near the finish. My official time has me at 20:00 but I ran 19:59 on my watch - so I was just on my sub-20! 39th overall - I was on my own after turning away from the river, so I had no help at all on the hardest part of the course".

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Three Exmouth Harriers competed in the Killerton Kanter cross country race. Phil Bater was 59th in 52:43, Jim Wyatt was 1st V65 and 66th overall in 54:12 and Terry Oldham was 71st in 55:11. Peter Monaghan of Torbay A C was the winner in 37:48 and there were 147 finishers.

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The Ruby Run Half Marathon at Holsworthy was won by Peter Hockin in 1:16:15. Harrier Cathy Newman was 1st lady and 6th overall in 1:27:47 and Peter McKeown was 24th in 1:38:48, out of the field of 150 runners.

Crewkerne 9

Sunday, 1st June 2008
One of the most 'undulating' courses I have ever run. No mile of the nine is complete without flogging uphill for a while and plunging down the other side. "A good test" as they say.

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Just John Perratt and I made the short 30-mile trip to Crewkerne (plus Bill Valentine from Torbay AC). John finished on top of the 'age-related percentages' with 81.44% (1:06:49) - 3rd Vet/60. Just three others broke the 80% barrier, Paul Rose (2nd in the race) from Yeovil Town RRC with 80.71% (52:27), Martin Pearse (4th in the race) from Taunton AC with 80.36% (53:28), and yours truly with 80.38% (1:01:55) - 1st Vet/60.

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A tough undertaking, but very satisfying for all that. At one point in the lanes we were running through the flood-water that has plagued Crewkerne -- around a foot deep I'd say. And we all arrived back at the finish looking like we had run a particularly muddy cross country race.

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At least I feel that I can enter and run a race again without thinking about whether the medics are well trained!

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(RR)

Plymouth 13.1 & Edinburgh 26.2

Six Exmouth Harriers completed the Plymouth Half Marathon which was won by Jean Ndasenga of Birchfield Harriers in 1:06:00. A large field of 3,421 runners finished the race.

The first Exmouth Harrier to finish was Shaun Lock, in 21st place in 1:17:57, after a superb run that saw him knock around 2 ½ minutes off his personal best. Well done, Shaun! Hugh Marsden, consistent as ever, was next to the finish line, 1st V45 and 25th overall in 1:18:33. The equally consistent Cathy Newman was 1st LV45 and 63rd overall in 1:24:37. Dawn Teed also ran well for 969th in 1:48:41 and Stef French was 1486th in 1:56:59, a good result considering her lack of training recently. Trevor Cope may have been the last Harrier to finish, in 1501st place in 1:57:48, but he achieved an amazing milestone in the process. He has now completed 230 half marathons, an English record by a considerable margin and quite possibly a world record as well!! Trevor, has also completed around 70 marathons too... Congratulations!

Another Exmouth Harrier, Julie Gellender, ran a superb race in Scotland at the Edinburgh Marathon. Her time of 3 hours 18 minutes was a personal best, achieved in difficult, windy conditions. Well done, Julie!

(LT)

BMAF Road Relays - Sutton Park

17th May - 21st Year of the event.

[The Exmouth Harriers BMAF 2008 V60 team]

35 V/60 teams entered this year, and the Exmouth 'lads' came in a respectable 17th overall.

Roger took his accustomed place -- 1st leg runner -- but found the pace very hot (the 2008 race was the fastest in some years due, no doubt, to the cool weather). he struggled somewhat up the hill, but found from then on he could gradually move up the field. At the turn he was around 16th place in the V/60s, but running down the hill he quickly caught and passed the 'gaggle' in front driving home up the hill in 18:53 in 12th place overall.

Jim, taking on the mantle that Ray normally carries, was our 2nd leg runner. His gutsy performance against much faster men showed his grit and determination, but overall lost 9 places to the V/60 field in 22:54 a decent effort.

New team member Duncan (Linklater), new to such distances (3 x 3 miles) flew away as if he was going to pull everyone back in the first mile. But as always for the Sutton Park 'rookie' found the long hill not much to his liking. However, his strength and power saw his gain place after place to the field, and 4 places in the V/60s. Pulling away from his chasers came home in a great time of 19:46 -- a great 1st attempt at anchoring the team.

Our friends from Clydesdale - Bobby, Brian and Peter, like us all another year older, came in a brilliant 4th overall. This is quite exceptional as all three of them are over 65.

Here is a photo of both squads in front of the Harriers tent.

Many thanks to 'supporter in chief' Mandy Marvin and the date flapjack, and especially to Les Turner acting as driver and travelling reserve (never a great position to be in). And Mary for the photos and encouragement.

Overall, Oxford City were knocked off their perch (hooray) by Elswick, with Rotherham coming in 3rd, with the aformentioned Clydesdale boys in a close 4th (we almost feel they are honorary members of Exmouth Harriers, as they feel we are of Clydesdale Harriers)!

(RR)

Kernow May '5'

The Kernow May 5 Miler took place on bank holiday Monday in Launceston, Cornwall, and was unusual in that the first and second places went to two brothers. Matthew and Ryan Cleave of Cornwall AC. They completed the race in 28:07 and 28:45 respectively, to head the field of 133 runners. Exmouth Harrier Andy Johnson was 29th in 33:36.

Ivybridge 10k

At 18.30 hours on Saturday 10th, on an evening better suited to barbeques and cold beer, several hundred runners lined up at the start line for the 2008 Ivybridge 10k road race. A contingent of eight Exmouth Harriers lined up with the starters.

The start was fast with the a short descent from the Station car park to the main road, B3219 where the course took a sharp left turn. The front runners set a blistering pace on a hot balmy evening hoping to achieve a course record, which was, unfortunately, not ultimately achieved.

The course followed a gradual ascent to just after the 2k marker where the course again turned left under the railway bridge for a very steep ascent for nearly a further 2 kilometres. The runners had to dig deep to maintain their momentum along the gruelling stretch. This climb highlighted the need for both speed and hill work in training. The course was well marshalled as the course meandered through the quiet lanes of Bittaford where at the 5k marker essential supplies of water were available. The hot night saw a greater than normal supply of liquid taken.

Shortly after the drinks station the course took a right turn to rejoin the B3219. The runners faced an undulating 3.5k run along the road before turning left off the main road for the final stretch to the finish.

The first runner home, Kairn Stone of the Newham and Essex Beagles, completed the race in 32 minutes and 6 seconds.

Andrew Johnson was the first Exmouth Harrier home in 80th position in a time of 41-26, followed by Mark Thompson in 107th position in a time of 42-51. The next Exmouth Harrier to complete the race was Chris Dupain in 115th position in a time of 43-11 followed closely by his sister Hannah Dupain in 137th position in a time of 44-06.

Bob Woodall finished in 143rd position in a time of 44-16. Ray Elson was the second Vet65 in 181st position in a time of 46-08. Nigel Dupain completed the family trio in 195th position in a time of 46-56. Finally Jim Wyatt complete the Harriers contingent in 320th position in a time of 53-24.

All the Harriers turned in admiral performances and there were some good individual performances especially from Jim, who considering that 24 hours previous he was still languishing in Gambia completing his "bird watching" holiday, without his wife finished strongly.

A total of 552 runners completed the course and the last runner home completed the 10k in just over one and one half hours.

(RW)