Running Hot: Trotters Take on Half Marathons in Heatwave Weekend

The Great West Run - Sunday 24th May

The Great West Run returned to Exeter this weekend, with runners taking on both the half marathon and 10K events on closed roads around the city. Starting and finishing at Exeter Arena, the race once again attracted large numbers and strong community support, with crowds lining the route to cheer participants through the warm conditions.

The half marathon course took runners through the city centre, university grounds and out into the surrounding Devon countryside, offering a varied route with a mix of urban streets and quieter lanes, along with around 700ft of climbing. Conditions were notably hot, making it a challenging day for runners across both distances, with many making use of shade, water stations and even garden hoses along the route to stay cool.

A total of 15 Trotters took on the half marathon, producing some outstanding performances in the heat. Leading the way was Alex Sparks, who ran superbly to finish 5th overall in 1:15:00, an excellent result in a competitive field.

Next home was John Pullen, who secured 3rd place in the M45–49 category with a strong 1:24:49, followed by Ewan Walton in 1:38:50. Matthew and Rachel Steele continued their consistent form, finishing together in 1:48:28, with Rachel also claiming 5th place in the FV50 category.

Further solid runs came from Lucy Peacock (1:57:26) and Callum Bevis (2:00:01), while Callum Price recorded 2:08:44 in tough conditions. Tim Synge, managing his effort after recent illness, ran sensibly to finish in around 2:18, making the most of the crowd support and cooling stops along the way.

In the half marathon, results were: Alex Sparks 1:15:00 (5th overall), John Pullen 1:24:49 (3rd M45–49), Ewan Walton 1:38:50, Matthew Steele 1:48:28, Rachel Steele 1:48:28 (5th FV50), Lucy Peacock 1:57:26, Callum Bevis 2:00:01, Darin Dodd 2:01:12, Callum Price 2:08:44, Chris Andrews 2:08, Robert Kaye 2:19:21, Chris March 2:19:21, Sue Tremlett 2:20:08, Ruby Jurczyk 2:24:12, Jamie Moore 2:28:44 and Darren Petch 2:33:35.

In the 10K, results were: Carl Bennett 51:40, Eric Moore 1:01:16, Katie Williams 1:03:13, Lisa Bennett 1:10:58 and Amy Mactaggart 1:14:05.

Another excellent turnout and set of performances for Teignbridge Trotters, with runners delivering strong results and supporting each other well despite the heat.

Coast to Coast Copper Trail - Saturday 23rd May

The Coast to Coast Copper Trail, organised by Purple Gecko, took place on Saturday 23rd May, offering runners a unique and scenic journey across Cornwall from Portreath on the north coast to Devoran on the south. Covering a half‑marathon distance, the point‑to‑point route follows historic transport trails first opened in 1812 to move copper between the two ports.

Starting on Portreath beach, the well‑marked course includes a checkpoint at the Fox & Hounds in Scorrier, before continuing towards the sheltered estuary at Devoran. The final section features an out‑and‑back stretch along the water, proving a tough mental test late in the race.

Conditions this year were hot and humid, adding to the challenge and making pacing and hydration key factors throughout. Despite the testing weather, the event retained its friendly, low‑key feel, with strong support from organisers and volunteers along the route.

Taking on the challenge for Teignbridge Trotters were Ruth Johnston and Sam Galvin, who both produced strong and determined runs in difficult conditions. Tackling the heat and the demanding final section, both runners showed excellent resilience to finish close together.

Ruth Johnston completed the course in 2:17:12, with Sam Galvin just behind in 2:17:30, both finishing strongly after a challenging run across varied terrain.

A huge thank‑you to everyone who contributed to this week’s race report.

To help keep things running smoothly, please send the contributions by 7pm each Sunday to Jo Randall at press@teignbridgetrotters.co.uk.