The Tamar Trotters get ready for a Turkey Trot!

TAMAR TROTTERS IN early November the final event of the Cornish Grand Prix series of races, the Cornish Marathon took place from Pensilva.

This is always a gruelling race on hilly windswept roads traversing Bodmin Moor. This was the final event of the Cornish Grand Prix series of races. An absolutely splendid performance by Ayesha Gillespie who knocked off a whole two hours from her previous marathon time.

There have been notable performances from other female runners including Bex Ezra-Ham who continues her winning streak by coming first in the ladies’ race in the Bideford 10-miler and later went on to become the Southwest Champion in the Exeter Cross Country event which is part of the Westward League of XC races.

Lisa Lewis has made splendid progress which has been shown by her improved personal best times in parkruns, she even knocked 17 minutes from her half marathon time! More recently Finlay Allen has run a 10 km personal best at Telford in a time of 37.13, this promising male athlete is going from strength to strength.

The Buffet and Disco Night was held in November where significant achievements by club members were recognised. Colin Bunting who is a founder member was awarded the Lifetime Award because he has given so much time over many years in committee roles, acting as the race director for the Saltash Half Marathon and Magnificent 7 events, and keeping everyone informed about UK athletics, and supporting members in their pursuit of their own goals. He has been very involved with the Saltash events such as the annual Santa run in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce. Colin was voted unanimously by the committee to be the recipient of this award. Other awards: Special Recognition was presented to Mark Rescorl, Jude Hollyman was given the 2023 C25k progression trophy, and Julia Mansell as the best mentor for the year.