Teignbridge Trotters Running Club
Newton Abbot, Devon
Established 1982
Born to Run
Trotters blaze an Autumn trail
Firstandlastrunning staged their Plym Trail Autumn Full & Half Marathon over the weekend of 17th & 18th October.
The Plym Trail is situated within an AONB on Dartmoor National Park, surrounded by stunning forests and valleys. The trail follows the historic railway from Coypool in Plymouth to the small picturesque village of Clearbrook.The start took place at Clearbrook Village Hall. The runners set off with a short loop of the village, before heading down Cycle route 27 towards the outskirts of Plymouth, before climbing back towards the finish at the village hall. Marathoners had to complete this route twice!
On the Saturday, two Trotters represented the Trotters in the Half Marathon. James Saunders & James Kerr both ran superbly, claiming 1st & 3rd respectively.
The weather at start time was cool but dry, with a fresh breeze to contend with. Jimbob was headed early on by the eventual 2nd place finisher, Dan Cox, but by mile two he had gained control of the race, and went on to win in style. James’s winning time was 01:31:30.
James Kerr put in a very solid performance on his racing debut for the Club, just missing out on the runner up spot, having finished very strongly. James clocked a time of 01:40:33. There were 31 finishers.
James Kerr takes 3rd on fine debut
James on his way to his maiden victory at Plym Trail Half on Day 1
Trotters line up before Day 2 Sunday Marathon
On the Sunday, five Teignbridge athletes competed in the full Marathon. The weather conditions were just about perfect at race time, with some bright Autumn sunshine.
Kris Ward led the Trotters home, finishing in 3rd place, clocking a time of 03:24:18.
A special mention must go to Sharon Sharples, who claimed 3rd female finisher, while posting an impressive time of 04:47:35. Sharon finished in 15th place overall. A great run!
The other Trotters positions and times were:
Roger Hayes (7, 03:40:30), Derek Skinner (11, 04:01:02), Paul Sharples (12, 04:15:09).
Mark Gregory took the honours, winning in a great time of 03:04:11
There were 29 finishers.
Chair adds one more to his Marathon total
Sharon, Paul and Derek keeping their distance
Derek Skinner soaking up the Autumn sunshine on Dartmoor
The full Marathon on Day 1 was won by Adam Holland, and in doing so, posted the second fastest course time. Adam currently holds the course record.
Adam celebrates his great run with Race Director Davey Green