O My Obelisk -thanks for Sam Galvin for her report " this was my first crack at this iconic challenge, and the weather certainly made sure it was one to remember—wild winds, relentless rain, and that special kind of sideways drizzle that only Devon can deliver. Despite the conditions, the camaraderie among runners was brilliant with everyone swapping encouragement as we battled our way up the seemingly endless climb to Mamhead. The marshals were absolute heroes, standing firm in the wind and rain with unwavering enthusiasm. And just when I thought the worst was behind me, the return to Dawlish served up a few spiteful hills of its own. A tough day out, but a memorable one.

A superb turnout meant the club Vest was visible everywhere including under anoraks to keep it clean in the muddy conditions. There were a few slips, slides and falls but no serious injuries. 

Ryan Astbury's view was "very wet, muddy and windy, with the climb feeling relentless and some nasty little rises even after the obelisk just when you thought the hard work was done. I saw my fiancée (and the dogs!) around halfway in the forest which gave me a boost, then promptly managed to fall fully over in a puddle not long after.

I was aiming for around 1:45-2hrs given the conditions, so really pleased to come home in 1:45:46 by my watch. Definitely one where effort mattered more than splits. Great camaraderie with all the other trotters racing and in support even in that weather made it still fun.

Based on feedback to date; Personal Bests were achieved by Sarah Blanchard and several others. Many completed the challenging course for the first time, or first time in ages and lived to tell their story ....for years to come. Winds were reportedly gusting close to 45mph on parts of the course.

The Dawlish Coasters event took place in the elements with the playing field run into the finish as always produced some drama with late over taking, gurning, some people lost and heading in the wrong direction, plus the odd slip and slide.

Top Trotters from each distance were recorded as follows; 9 Miles; Briony Calderwood 24th 1:37:35, Amy Davey 50th 1:48:38, Karen Peters 52nd 1:49:04, Ali Clayton 65th 1:56:49, from 79 finishers.

13 mile; Won by Sam Kelly of Exmouth Harriers in 1:20:45 a super time in the conditions, Roger Easterbrook 7th 1:35:21, Tim Pratt 17th 1:41:46, Jon Pressling 25th 1:45:25, Ryan Astbury 1:45:46, Guy Jary 38th 1:52:18, Ben Tampkins 51st 1:57:27, Andrew Fox 62nd 2:00:32, 

Full results here.

Endurancelife North Cornwall Half Marathon – 10 January

Jo and Tim represented Teignbridge Trotters at the Endurancelife North Cornwall Half Marathon on 10 January. Despite recent storms, conditions on the day were ideal for trail running, with sunshine and a gentle breeze making it feel more like spring than mid-winter.

The challenging course delivered steep terrain and magnificent coastal views throughout, with a spectacular start and finish on Polzeath Beach. The event was, as always, excellently organised by Endurancelife.

Jo completed the race in 2:45:03, rounding off a superb day of coastal trail running in North Cornwall. Awaiting news on Tim's time.