Totnes 10K proves a huge hit in the sunshine

The Teignbridge Trotters staged their annual Totnes 10K and 1-mile Fun Run on Sunday 6th August. The 10K course had to be altered slightly due to Dartington Estate carrying out restoration work on part of the footpath by the River Dart. This meant the distance was slightly longer than 10K. That didn’t seem to trouble race winner, Skip Snelon from Banbary Harriers, who won the race is a superb time of 39:35. First lady across the line was Katie Synge-Curtis of the Royal Navy AC in a time of 44:47.

Ceri Rees was second, finishing in a time of 40:02. Erme Valley Harrier Matthew Gilvear came third, in a time of 41:08. Fourth place went to another Erme Valley Harrier, Ronnie Haynes in 42:42. Fifth was Mark Ferguson of Datchet Dashers in 42:55.

Charlotte Walker from Tavistock AC was second lady in 46:54. South West Road Runners Amy Jones was third in 47:47. In fourth place was Charlene Matthews running for Storm Plymouth in a time of 48:10. In fifth place was Elli Dominey in 49:54.

After all the recent inclement summer weather, the sun made a welcome appearance to the relief of the event organisers. The Pavilion Leisure Centre in Totnes was once again the head quarters for the race, with the race starting and finishing on Borough Park. Conditions were near perfect for the 524 finishers, who enjoyed the off road route that took them alongside the River Dart and out to Huxman's Cross before returning to Totnes via the cycle path at Dartington.

Bob Small, who’s last year it was as Race Director said: ‘The race reached its race limit of 625 a couple of days beforehand - a fantastic response, which will enable us to make another large donation to our chosen race charity, Totnes Caring’.

Runners were able to refuel after the race with a choice from the wonderful selection of home made cakes, tea’s & coffee’s, a BBQ and a visit to the beer tent!

The race always features a battle for the coveted team trophies. In the men’s team event, the South West Runners ran out winners, with four of their team of six finishing in the top 20. Erme Valley Harriers won the ladies team.

The 1-mile Fun Run which started before the main race at 11am, attracted 99 finishers. The route is a traffic free course around the perimeter of the park. First girl home and overall race winner was Tara Ferguson, running for Windsor Slough Eton & Hounslow AC, who flew round the course posting a great time of 05:27. In second place and first boy was Joshua Parkinson who crossed the line in 05:48. As was the case with the 10K race, each finisher received a bespoke medal.

This year’s sponsors were Sibelco, Mr Mortgages, China Blue, The Albert Inn and Empire Scaffold.

Club Chairman, Roger Hayes, was full of praise for Bob in his last year as RD, he said:’ It was very fitting for Bob to bow out on such a successful race. Everyone seemed to enjoy both races, there was a wonderful atmosphere throughout the day. On behalf of everyone at the Trotters, I would like to thank Bob for all his hard work during his three years as Race Director’.

Attentions now turns to the next race organised by the club; the Ladies 10K, which takes place on Sunday 24th September. This is followed by their last race of the year, the Sibelco Templer Ten on Sunday 8th October. Entries for both races are open and selling fast! For more details please visit our website; wwwteignbridgetrotters.co.uk