New race record for Templer Ten as Trotters make the most of a beautiful weekend for racing

The Sibelco Templer Ten - Sunday 4th October

The final Teignbridge Trotters race of 2026 proved to be a huge success, with the Sibelco Templer Ten selling out more than a week before race day and attracting a record field of 335 runners. Held in glorious autumn sunshine, the popular 10-mile race once again showcased the very best of local running, community spirit and club organisation.

Starting and finishing within the beautiful grounds of Stover School, the route takes runners through Teigngrace, along Summer Lane and around Stover Country Park before returning to a warm welcome at the finish. Conditions may have been warm, but that didn't stop some outstanding performances at the sharp end of the field.

With last year's winner and course record holder unavailable to defend his title, the door was left open for a new record and Sam Kelly (Exmouth Harriers) seized the opportunity in spectacular fashion. Fresh from victory at this year's Haytor Heller, he stormed around the course in 54:31, taking more than a minute and a half off the previous course record. Host club runner Alex Sparks produced an excellent performance to finish second in 55:42, a time which would itself have been a course record prior to this year, while Callum Crawford (Exeter Harriers) was third in 58:33.

The women's race was won by Helen Pryde in 67:50, ahead of Teignbridge Trotters' Chloe Olford, who continued her excellent season with second place in 68:57. Lydia Stimson (Exmouth Harriers) completed the podium in 69:19.

Other Teignbridge Trotters finishers were: Harley Law (15th, 1:08:05), Ryan Astbury (28th, 1:12:24), Kathryn Steemson (93rd, 1:26:04), Kevin Appleby (130th, 1:30:59), Laura Law (151st, 1:34:50), Daniel Eaton (158th, 1:35:49), Kelly Dean (168th, 1:38:10), Catherine Bray (187th, 1:42:43), Sophie Thomson (192nd, 1:44:17), Katie Williams (207th, 1:48:43), Jamie Moore (208th, 1:48:55), Darren Petch (226th, 1:56:18), Amanda Gibbs (230th, 1:56:50) and Amy Mactaggart (255th, 2:05:25).

The equally popular 1-mile Fun Run also attracted a record turnout, with 122 young runners taking part on the traffic-free course within the school grounds. In a thrilling finish, William Rattlidge edged out Toby Easterbrook by just one second to secure victory in 5:48, while Lily Wilson was first girl home and fourth overall in 6:26.

Away from the racing, there was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the morning, with runners, spectators and volunteers enjoying coffee, cake and a barbecue while soaking up the sunshine. The event also raised valuable funds for Rowcroft Hospice, and a special mention goes to Honiton Running Club, who made the Templer Ten their club outing of the year, arriving in force with 46 runners and a coach-load of supporters.

Race Director Roger Hayes was delighted with the success of the event, particularly after achieving his goal of a sell-out race, with entries increasing year on year during his four years at the helm.

Cardiff Half Marathon - Sunday 4th October

Sue Tremlett travelled to the Welsh capital for the Cardiff Half Marathon on Sunday, one of the UK's largest road races, which this year attracted more than 30,000 participants across the race weekend and saw a new women's course record set.

The course showcases many of Cardiff's best-known landmarks and is renowned for its enthusiastic crowd support. However, Sue found the experience challenging for a number of reasons. Coming just three weeks after completing The Lap, her legs were still feeling the effects of that demanding event. The sheer size of the race also made it difficult to settle into a comfortable rhythm, with congestion proving an issue for much of the route and limiting opportunities to run at a natural pace.

Getting to the start was a challenge in itself, with large volumes of pedestrians moving in both directions causing delays and resulting in Sue arriving near the back of her allocated wave. Once underway, the busy roads presented further obstacles, with numerous speed bumps and potholes often hidden from view by the density of runners. Warm conditions on the day added another layer of difficulty.

While the event undoubtedly delivered a memorable atmosphere and some impressive elite performances, including a women's course record, it was not a race that particularly suited Sue's preferences. Her verdict was simple: a worthwhile experience to have tried, but once is enough.

Studland Stampede - Sunday 4th October

Fresh from completing a marathon the previous weekend, Joanna Randall headed to Dorset for the picturesque Studland Stampede, a challenging 12km off-road race set against the stunning backdrop of Studland Bay. Part of the Purbeck Trail Series, the route combines heathland trails, sandy beaches and spectacular coastal views, including glimpses of Old Harry Rocks, Brownsea Island and Poole Harbour.

The race wastes little time introducing its challenges, with a hilly and technical opening 3km over heathland before runners encounter a gruelling stretch of deep, soft sand that saps the energy from even the strongest legs. The finale is unforgettable: a roughly 3km all-out effort along the beach's wet sand back towards the finish.

Thankfully, the weather provided perfect racing conditions, with glorious sunshine showcasing the Dorset coastline at its very best. Along the route there was plenty to keep runners entertained, including a brief passage through Studland's famous nudist beach. Joanna completed the course in an unofficial time of 1:07:22 and highly recommends the event for anyone looking for a scenic trail race with plenty of variety. One tip for future participants: make sure you bring a collapsible cup. Like Barnstaple, this is a genuinely cup-free event. Finishers were rewarded with some thoughtful post-race treats, including Lush products, ideal after a refreshing dip in the sea or a session in the sauna.

Barnstaple Marathon - Sunday 28th September

The previous weekend saw Joanna Randall take on the Barnstaple Marathon, a predominantly flat course based around the Tarka Trail and the scenic riverside routes of North Devon. While the profile is favourable for fast times, conditions on the day proved far from ideal.

Strong gusting winds were a feature throughout the race and persistent heavy rain arrived during the second half, effectively ending any hopes of a personal best. Despite the challenging conditions, Joanna completed the marathon in 4:15:04.

The largely flat route takes runners from Rock Park onto the Tarka Trail, passing through Fremington, Yelland and Instow before returning to Barnstaple for the finish. However, while the course itself has potential for fast running, the post-race experience was less enjoyable. The absence of water at the finish was a particular disappointment after 26.2 demanding miles, and runners were also faced with an unwelcome climb up steps towards the leisure centre after crossing the line.

While those seeking a relatively flat marathon may still find it appealing, this was not a race Joanna would rush back to. Sometimes the weather, organisation and finish-line experience can have just as much impact on race memories as the course itself.

Robin Hood Half Marathon, Nottingham - Sunday 27th September

The sold-out Robin Hood Half Marathon saw around 15,000 runners take to the streets of Nottingham for one of the Midlands' most popular race events. The 13.1-mile course showcased many of the city's iconic landmarks and was supported by enthusiastic crowds, creating a fantastic atmosphere from start to finish.

Chris Andrews was the sole Trotter taking part and produced an excellent run, finishing in 1:58:17 to achieve the coveted sub-2-hour half marathon milestone. A superb performance in a record-breaking year for the event.

Next club championship race: Sunday 11th October The ColyTEN The ColyTEN

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 at press@teignbridgetrotters.co.uk.