There are some races which are legendary in Running Forever folklore and the Dartmoor Discovery, or DD as it’s known, is certainly near the top of that list. This 32 mile ultra starts and finishes in Princetown and takes in all the highs and highs of Dartmoor, with the occasional downhill thrown in just to fool the unwary.
An intrepid dozen runners set off well equipped for the trip and had even taken their own cheerleaders, who appeared at various places on the route for fresh injections of RFRC spirit when the tough hills and strict cut off times were taking their toll.
Completing the 32 miles with apparent ease in 4.22, Ali Bisatt collected trophies for fifth overall and first in his age group. Martin Webb was next back in 5.26 with Scott Weech and Jonathan Newby crossing the line together in 6.04. This is a race where the hills take their toll on the legs so well done to Sally Tuer who finished in 6.20 along with Peter Hall. Bev Collins, Richard Staunton and Chris Gunn trotted back in 6.24. There were great cheers when Rob Murr, who has been struggling with injury all year but who used the technique of a Club legend by ‘Emmagreiging’ the hills, finished in 6.30 along with Brian Bandyszewski, with Ron Foord hot on their heels.
This was Sally’s first Ultra Marathon, an amazing achievement for anyone but she only started running five years ago! Her time was speedy enough to earn her 3rd place in her age grouping.
Helen Moffat completed the 17 mile Culinary Coastal Canter off road race in a creditable 4.03, finishing on a golden sandy beach.
Andy Staples and Hannah Kirkman made the short trip to Crewkerne for their 10K, finishing this hilly race in 42.33 and 55.04 respectively.
Parkrun tourists ventured to Kingston, Barnstone, Minehead, Killerton, Fountains Abbey, Hastings and Lanhydrock where Claire Allison completed her 50th different parkrun. Thirty six took on the local course at Longrun Meadow where Simon Denson, Simon Rowland (yet again) and Luke Thorne achieved PBs.