Sunny Solstice Race report – Richard Best

Ceri Rees on route to another win but with fierce competition from Joseph Battershill from Erme Valley Harriers

Sorry this is late for a report – its been a bit busy while a deluge of races. The course attracted a great field of 106 runners in seniors . Thanks to Andy Houghton and in particular Colin Kirk Potter as Race Director for the day.

A great setting for the race nestled in the Walkham valley at Merrivale with the Fells’ field ( thank you) for parking and the Dartmoor Inn on standby with refreshments.

The race was pacey from the start with a core group of 10-12 runners setting a good tempo up the steep incline. A few adventurous runners tried a direct diagonal line straight across to Higher staple only to encounter really tough loose rocks. ( I tried the same on the first year only to find myself re-joining the race well down the pack).

Great conditions meant fast running – but was very hot for a 7pm race.

Sam Deller TAC another great run
Charlotte Walker first U17 and first Lady
Sam Priday first in for ORC

The leading three runners all finished within 27secs Ceri Rees in 37min 48sec; Joseph Battershill (EVH) 9 secs later and Sam Deller(TAC) 15 secs behind; followed by another 5 runners all within 2 mins including another great run from Tim Lenton (Axe Valley). A superb performance from Charlotte Walker (TAC) first lady and first U17 in 46mins 10 secs and 27th overall.

Men’s team went to ORC again, although closely followed by TAC ( with 3 in top 10) – let down by me on my first return to racing from illness and injury – but great to be out!.

Great running all – superb event celebrated by a few dips in the river and a drink for those that could brave the sudden midge appearance!

See you on the hills

Richard