the discoverer official magazine 2012

[1] CONTENTS Feedback 3 Welcome 4 Di’s Pride and Passion forum 6 Littledown Harriers 9 Doing the Druid 10 Hall of Fame The 2011 DD was the first to be 12 DD Diehards organised by the Teignbridge Trotters. So how did we do?

DD marshal John Skinner cheers 13 DD Dossier Complete Warren D’Rozario home. Race Guide 17 On My Radio Isn’t the Internet a wonderful thing?hing? I have run the event three times now Well, it is when it delivers an electronicectronic and this was bby far the most enjoyable. The 18 The Ghost Runner mailbag full of positive comments and aid stations and marshalling were superb. For 20 Roman’s Czech Mate constructive feedback from our lovely runners. all the first-timers I think this will have been a At 6.30am on race day last year, the Trotters’ perfect introduction into the world of ultras. 22 Party on Down! DD team took a deep breath and launched Carl Miles into the biggest event we had ever staged. We 23 First-Timer and Super had a hard act to follow. Race founder Phil You have retained the integrity and spirit of Snappers Hampton did a superb job over many years, the race but with an increased but manageable numbers of competitors. 24 DD Record Book creating a fantastic ultra in a splendid setting. We’re thrilled to report that, judging by the Grecian 2000 scores of emails we received after last year’s 26 Number Swaps and You’ve managed the neat trick of bringing a DD, those who took part felt we had preserved Prize List fresh feel to the race but also preserving all the essence of this unique event while the strengths of the original. That’s a difficult 27 John Skinner and his introducing some exciting innovations. Here’s feat. The medal and t-shirt are really first a selection of the comments that hit our inbox. Cruel Mistress class, which is fitting because you earn them! You told me the DD would be well looked Restless Legs after in Teignbridge Trotters hands and that Sadly I was one of the scarily large number has certainly been the case. Thank you to The Discoverer who didn’t get to a cut-off in time. But that everybody involved for a continued great obvious disappointment aside, it was great. event. I shall not forget the cakes at the finish, Editor:Editor: JohnJohn LudlamLudlam Although I was a victim of a cut-off you are sorry for having more than my fair share! right to have them and
I think the times you Photos: Milos Erben, Graham Graham Baker Penn, John Ludlam, Abbie Perry have set are fair. I plan to be back next year Images: Nick Stevens When I came across the line looking very to settle a score with Dartmoor and nail your grey I was rushed to a seat and observed terrifying, wonderful race. Thanks to everyone who very efficiently. The food and drink available James Hopegood contributed to the magazine helped me to recover quickly. I thought it could have been my first and only Discovery James, we salute your determination! We’ll be Printed by Swift Print, but now I aim to compete every year! there on the big day to help you and all your fellow runners get the most from the DD. 2 High Street, Dawlish, EX7 9HP Anthony Shaw

The marshals were a credit to the club with Please keep your comments coming. We read MILOS ERBEN/ GRAHAM PENN Cover: Susan Davey (Marshall Milton Keynes AC) their cheerful support for the runners. Well everything you send us, good, bad or ugly, and Michael Grehan (Dunstable Road Runners), done to you all. and all your feedback helps the DD team plan pictured during the 2011 DD. Photo: Milos Erben. Jane Bremner a better event. See you on race day!

[2] Welcome RACE TEAM

Looking for a little Race Director: inspiration? Look no Roger Hayes further, says DD Race Secretary: Noel Fowler Director Roger Hayes. Chief Marshal: Tarquin Milford (pictured below) Sector Marshals: Jan Caunter, Mark Becker, Welcome to the 2012 edition of The Please take time to read the DD Dossier Discoverer.
We’ve got plenty of articles to pullout (page 13). It is full of information to Rod Payne, Michelle inspire you as you ramp up your training ensure you enjoy a trouble-free, safe race Willocks-Watts ahead of the big day. We all need a bit of experience. Dartmoor is a wild and inspiration at this time of dank, chilly days wonderful place and we want you to enjoy and long, dark nights, so get the kettle on it. We also want you to finish in one piece! and put your feet up with the mag. I hope many of you will make a full The tragic, utterly compelling story of John weekend out of the DD, by registering on Tarrant should be an inspiration to all the Friday evening and joining us for the runners, everywhere. His determined battle Pasta Party at the Plume of Feathers. for recognition in the face of intransigent Then, after the race, you can dance away athletics authorities is a lesson to us all. your aches and pains at the legendary DD Course Director: John’s name is on the DD’s MV40 trophy Disco. I look forward to seeing you there! and we’re proud that it’s there. Read his Dave Dunn story on page 18. This year, we have secured the services of Asst Course Directors: The Massage Clinic. This Exeter-based We’ve also got loads of inspirational tips team will be on hand after the race to help Nathan Elphick, from top DD performers, including 2011 smooth away all those nasty lactic acids. Adrian Youngman Ladies’ winner Di Roy (page 4) and third It’s a free service, so do take advantage of Lead Bike: Stewart Dunn man, Czech runner Roman Pavlu (page it. In addition, our photography team will 20). Plus, our reporter has checked out one be documenting the day. Images will be of the most inspirational multi-stage ultras available for free download after the race. out there, The Druid Challenge (page 9). I will be sending out a final email nearer The 2011 event was a great success, with race day. If you haven’t given us your email 146 finishers out of 163 starters. The heat – address yet, please let us have it. We can and those infamous hills – made for a then also send you your split times after typically tough DD but that didn’t seem to the race. If you have to withdraw from the deter the overall winner, Teignbridge Trotter DD, please take advantage of our number Dave Tomlin, or Di, who runs for East swap service. Details on page 26. Cornwall Harriers. I’m thrilled to report that both Dave and Di are returning this year to I would like to thank everyone associated Race Catering: Tina defend their titles. Good luck to you both. with the DD, particularly our race sponsors: Caunter (pictured with Ironbridge Runner, St Austell Brewery, her fab team, above) Demand for places in the 2012 DD was Ashfords Solicitors, the Road Runners strong and the race became full on 2 Club, South Dartmoor Community College Communications: December. Against the backdrop of a and Linhay Projects. Their support is John Ludlam tough economic climate, I was delighted invaluable. If you are staying at one of the that it filled up so quickly. It’s particularly establishments or entering one of the Photography: pleasing that, like last year, the race has marathons that have advertised in The Graham Penn, Julia attracted more than 100 DD newbies, Discoverer, please mention the magazine. many of whom will be experiencing an ultra Proctor, Dave Cooper MILOS ERBEN/ GRAHAM PENN race for the first time. With so many new The race team and myself look forward to Pasta Party & Disco: marathons and ultras popping up all over meeting you in June. In the meantime, stay Caroline Hayes the country the future for our sport looks injury-free and don’t forget to get some very promising. serious hill training in!

[3] Pride and Passion

2011 DD ladies’ winner Diane Roy has an unconventional training schedule. But it produces results... Di’s always looking for new challenges

How did the running bug grab you? the first time,e walkingwalkingu upps someome of thethe the rest of them. The Trotters not only know I started running six years ago and thought steeper climbs! Yet there is something to be how to put on the best race of the year, but I’d run the Dublin Marathon for a laugh. I said for this because I managed a PB. So, they also definitely know how to throw a finished the race and got that feeling you for any DD virgins out there, don’t worry party. The post-race disco was an absolute get when crossing the finish line. I was about walking up some of the steep hoot last year and it was a great end to a hooked! inclines, as this technique does appear to fantastic day out. lend itself to energy conservation and can You’ve achieved a great deal since then. help ensure a successful attempt at the I still only had the courage to run a couple distance. of marathons each year following Dublin. PREVIOUS VICTORS It’s only really been recently that I’ve How’s the training been going? MEN stepped up the count. I managed to do 20 I’m an abysmal runner when it comes to 2011 Dave Tomlin - Teignbridge Trotters 3:57.48 last year. My total now stands at 37. I’m still following schedules and run when I want, 2010 Dave Stone - Exmouth Harriers 3:50:53 a long way from joining my running pals in for how long I want. And I don’t do any 2009 Alan Ryder - Erme Valley Harriers 3:43:43 the 100 Marathon Club. speed work whatsoever! So, please don’t 2008 Brian Cole - Royal Navy AC 3:47:51 look to me for inspiration because I’m You’ve got a bit of a soft spot for the DD. 2007 Brian Cole - Royal Navy AC 3:44.58 useless. But it seems to work for me. I’m The DD will always be on my hit list of races 2006 Brian Cole - Royal Navy AC 3:49:27 worried that, if I were to start ‘training’, 2005 Brian Cole - Royal Navy AC 3:39:21 to do, no matter what I have planned. The the word ‘tedious’ would spring to mind. 2004 Dave Stone - Exmouth Harriers 3:51:48 support, organisation and atmosphere is For me, I have found a passion for 2003 Mike Feighan - Bideford AC 3:44:45 second to none and you can forget any running and I don’t ever want to lose that 2002 Mike Feighan - Bideford AC 3:36:18 worries about hydration or nutrition as there by having to do what some programme 2000 Shaun Milford - Newquay RR 3:51:55 are so many feeding stations. It will be 1999 Mike Jacobs - Weston AC 3:58:52 dictates. my
fourth time. I’ve managed second lady 1998 Brian Davidson - Citadel Harriers 3:56:36 twice and winning lady last year. So, hey, So what does keep you motivated? what if that does make me biased! I like setting myself new challenges. Two LADIES 2011 Diane Roy - East Cornwall Harriers 4:29:50 That’s a mighty impressive record. weeks after the DD, I’m aiming to 2010 Helen Taranowski - West Four Harriers 4:18:46 complete the UTSW (Ultra Trail South I was just lucky last year that the faster 2009 Emily Gelder - Dulwich Runners 4:39:12 West) 100-mile race. I’m also motivated runners didn’t make it on the day. But, as 2008 Adela Salt - Trentham AC 4:02:36 by the great people I’ve met through so they say, you have to be in it to win it. This 2007 Heather Foundling Hawker - Honiton RC 4:07:50 year I’m under no illusions: I’m sure the fast many different races. The wonderful 2006 Heather Foundling Hawker - Honiton RC 4:05:38 girls will be out in force. One thing they friendships I’ve made have been forged 2005 Heather Foundling Hawker - Honiton RC 4:17:16 can’t take away, however, is my name on through taking on challenges together 2004 Heather Foundling Hawker - Honiton RC 4:30:00 the perpetual trophy. That’s something I will and will hopefully stay with me a lifetime. 2003 Christine Costiff - S.London Harriers 4:41:14 MILOS ERBEN always be proud of. 2002 Carolyn Hunter-Rowe - Horwich RMIH 4:20:12 Being from Liverpool, I guess you’ll be 2000 Hilary Walker - Serpentine AC 4:53:59 Talk us through last year’s race. staying for the party. 1999 Hilary Walker - Serpentine AC 4:48:09 The 2011 DD was quite a challenge, as it You bet your life I will be! I’ll be shaking 1998 Peggy Wiseman - SWRR 5:38:02 was a very hot day, and I found myself, for my wobbly bits on that dance floor with

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Plume of Feathers Inn

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[5] Littledowners at large!

Anyone who’s done the DD in recent years must have encountered the large and cheery Littledown Harriers contingent. The Discoverer catches up with the clan in orange and black.

The Littledown Harriers Running Club was athletics track every fortnight. Many charity offering support for bereaved established in 1990 at the then newly sessions take place in Kings Park or along children and young people. opened Littledown Leisure Centre in the nine miles of Bournemouth promenade. Bournemouth. The new running club was We’re sure there’s not a kiss-me-quick-hat Apart from the running scene, the Harriers seen as a natural
extension of the activities to be seen! also offer a great social calendar, provided by the centre. Despite the fact organising many events, from quizzes to that there are other running clubs in Every year, the Harriers organise the pub nights. This year, they’re off camping in Bournemouth, including the ladies-only Littledown 5, a five-mile road race that the Wye Valley. Not ones to be content with Bournemouth Joggers and the Westbourne attracted more than 300 runners in 2011. sitting round the camp fire, they are Runners, the Littledown Harriers have gone The race is also part of the Dorset Road planning a day’s mountain biking, a from strength to strength. They now boast Race League, in which Littledown’s ladies Canadian Kayak expedition and a 19-mile a membership of more than 150 members, came second in 2011, pushing Poole run that will take in three castles. Runners (11-time consecutive champions) of which 38 per cent are ladies. That total is Members can get all this and more when even more impressive considering they all the way for the title, only just missing out on the final race of the season. they hand over their £26 annual don’t have a junior section. The minimum membership. What a bargain! age for joining the Harriers is 16 years old. Littledown’s runners are very proud of the One Harrier, Barry Light, who has two DDs Littledown runners still meet at and train fact that they raise money for local Dorset charities. Members nominate a charity of under his belt, is undertaking a very from the Littledown Centre, on Tuesday ambitious project in 2012. At the age of 60, CONTRIBUTED and Friday evenings. Members can usually the year and all proceeds from the Littledown 5 race and other events that the he is aiming to complete
60 marathons in choose from three sessions featuring 60 weeks, while raising £60,000 for local intervals, hills, speed work and a steady club organises go to that charity. In 2012, the chosen charity is Mosaic, a Dorset Dorset charities. All the details can be run. The club also hires the Bournemouth found at www.60in60at60.com, together

[6] with the list of his 60 marathons. The Harriers are hoping to stage Bournemouth’s first marathon in June, consisting of 26 laps round Littledown Park. It’s hoped all proceeds will go towards Barry’s challenge. Meanwhile, if you bump into him, say hello, give him a cheer and bung him a fiver!

As we go to press, it looks like the Littledown Harriers will again be mobbing up for the DD, with 12 members already committed, including two newbies. It’s a race that they look forward to eagerly. This year, the gang are all staying at Princetown’s Prince of Wales Pub. Longtime member Ade Holloway, tells The Discoverer: ‘You know when the Harriers are in town, because we love a good party!’ Something tells us they’ll be a force to be reckoned with at the post- race DD disco…

Littledown lads and lasses: Paulo De Luca (55 marathons, 7 ultras, 12 Ironmans, above); 60in60at60 man Barry Light (below); Kathy Fooks, who made her DD debut in 2011 (below left); Heather Khoshnevis (23 marathons, 7 ultras, 1 Ironman, left) and Ade Holloway (24 marathons, 25 ultras, left). Phew! PERRY

ABBIE

ERBEN/

MILOS ERBEN/ ABBIE PERRY

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THE 36TH DUCHY MARATHON AND 8TH DUCHY 20 Promoted by Cornwall Athletic Club SUNDAY 4 MARCH 2012 starts at 10.30am Start and finish at the Penventon Park Hotel, Redruth, TR15 1TE Cash prizes for first three Men and Ladies, inc. £100 for each winner Trophies for the first three in ALL Veteran 5 year age groups Prizes to the first three teams (No individual, age group or team awards in the ‘20’) Medals and Cornish pasties to all finishers in both races Entry fees Marathon £12 (unattached £14) £2 extra on the day Duchy 20 £7 (unattached £9) £2 extra on the day

DETAILS FROM and ENTRIES TO: Vance Webster Tremeneth, Gulval Churchtown, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 3BD Tel: 01736 366319 Email: [email protected] Or visit www.cornwallac.org.uk

PASTA PARTY at the Penventon Park Hotel on the Saturday evening Special Offer: SPRING MARATHON BREAK AT THE PENVENTON PARK HOTEL Visit www.penventon.co.uk or email [email protected] Tel 01209 203000

From DUCHY to DARTMOOR… Ideal!

[8] Doing the Druid

The Druid Challenge might wreck your body but it will expand your mind, Lynn Cunningham reports. Main pic: Day 3 gets off to a flying start. Inset: Lynn and Peter.

It was the mildest November on record. gave each other encouragement, shared popcorn, Jaffa Cakes, orange squash. Eat People were still out running in the paracetamol and plasters, and cheered as me! Drink me! All that was missing was the Highlands of Scotland wearing t-shirts and the front runners glided past as if they were Mad Hatter! shorts. The forecast was 15 degrees just out for a morning 10K. They’re not centigrade each day for the foreseeable human! I have to admit that, at the end of day two, future. So why was I huddled in a barn with clubmate Peter and I found ourselves at the 50 other shivering runners watching our Day one highlights: the huge monument that Royal Oak in Wantage, where we downed a breath turn to vapour as it merged into the loomed out of the fog at the top of Coombe couple of lovely pints of Dr Hexter’s Healer. chilly fog outside? Hill; an enormous gathering of red kites (Was I hallucinating? Yes, there was the dog soaring above us as we passed through the with goggles lying on the floor of the pub…) Well, it was day one of the Druid Challenge Chilterns; head torches glimmering through Ridgeway Multistage Ultra, that’s why! Day three highlights: I knew I was injured Before us lay three days of running along (don’t trust Dr Hexter to really heal you) and the Ridgeway, a 5,000-year-old trail I shouldn’t have run, but it was the last day stretching from Ivinghoe Beacon near Tring and we were joined by Richard Staunton to Barbury Castle in Wiltshire — 84 miles from our club. No time to be a wimpy girl tracing the footsteps of travellers from the with a poorly tendon. Anyway, there were distant past. I bet they didn’t worry about only 28 miles left. Grit teeth, just keep which trail shoes to wear! going. Ouch, ouch, ouch. But I wasn’t suffering alone. All around me, determined Fellow Running Forever club member Peter limpers hobbled relentlessly forwards. Pink Hall, a certain Mr Roger Hayes and I were smarties; ghostly footprints of peasants and among the clever few who managed to get druids; galloping horses; rabbit holes big the last bus up to the start. So, as soon as enough to swallow you; spectacular views we climbed the Beacon, it was time to go the dark for the last few miles; the poor guy when the fog finally gave in. And the finish. and we didn’t have to freeze any more. Off who pinned his number to his Camelbak — Yay! We did it! we went, slipping and sliding along the and pierced the bladder. chalky trails through ancient woodlands, So why should you do this next year? Can Day two highlights: running much of the way commons, fields and tracks. you resist the challenge? It’s a fantastic with a dog that wore goggles (I promise I adventure that you share with people of all This multi-day ultra is organised by Extreme wasn’t hallucinating); more hills, tracks and abilities. The camaraderie has to be Energy (which I didn’t have!) Each night, the the Thames; enormous woodland experienced to be believed. Above all, the EXTREME ENERGY/ ROGER HAYES/ CONTRIBUTED Extreme team organised indoor campsites toadstools good enough to have starred in hallucinations are free. in school or sports halls, where they fed and Alice in Wonderland (really, I wasn’t watered us. We met inspiring people and hallucinating); the beloved checkpoints Editor’s note: look out for Lynn at this shared stories of pain and blisters. We all stocked with sweets, pretzels, toffee year’s DD. She is number 46.

[9] Some people just don’t know when to stop. Everyone listed below has hall of fame completed 5 or more DDs. Awesome!

13
DDs: Graham BAKER, Mid Essex Casuals 11: Roger HALES, Teignbridge Trotters Bryan KING, Plymouth Musketeers RC 10: Rona BULEY, Eastleigh RC 9: Andrew FOX, Road Runners Club Alan LITTLEJOHNS, Launceston RR 8: David BEATTIE, Crawley AC Selina DA SILVA, 100 Marathon Club Neil FISHER, Torbay AAC Samuel KILPATRICK, Road Runners Club Alan MANN, Les Croupiers Andrew RICHARDS, Road Runners Club Patricia SEABROOK, Finch Coasters Dave STONE, Exmouth Harriers Robert TINNYUNT, Teignbridge Trotters Ewan WALTON, Teignbridge Trotters 7: Liz EASTERBROOK, Hayle Runner Gilbert JOHN, Les Croupiers Richard PEARSON, Southampton RC David TOMLIN, Teignbridge Trotters 6: Roy BARNES, Road Runners Club Reg CHAPMAN, Littledown Harriers Steve CHARLESTON, Bearbrook Joggers Andrew CROCK, San Domenico RRC Loretta DALEY, Les Croupiers Warren D'ROZARIO, Sandwell Valley RC Robert ELLIS, Langport Runners Mike FEIGHAN, Exeter Harriers

DD veterans enjoying the glorious sunshine during the Rebecca FRYER, Tamar Trotters (above) 2011 race: Alan Mann (top); Roy GREW, Road Runners Club Richard Staunton (104, Roger HAYES, Teignbridge Trotters above); Andrew Richards Linda HUXLEY, Bearbrook Joggers (below); Ewan Walton (left). Ray MCCURDY, 100 Marathon Club Jim MUNDAY, Sutton Runners Mike NEWMAN, Lordshill Road Runners Richard STAUNTON, Running Forever 5: Michael CLARKE, Northampton RR Julie DALZELL, Marshall Milton Keynes AC Kevin DAY, Goyt Valley Striders Philip DODDS, Littledown Harriers David DUNN, Teignbridge Trotters Cedric HUGHES, Unattached Stuart MOULSON, Teignbridge Trotters MILOS ERBEN/ GRAHAM PENN/ ABBIE PERRY John SKINNER, Teignbridge Trotters Paul STURTRIDGE, Tavistock AC Mark WOODALL, Cobra Chris WRIDE, Teignbridge Trotters

[10] Fox Tor Cafe

Open at 6.30am on race day! Choose from a full range of our famous Fox Tor cooked breakfasts and hearty bowls of porridge. Good quality food, served in a warm and friendly atmosphere: sandwiches, paninis, pasties, jacket potatoes, children’s menu and vegetarian options. Special and main meals, including scampi, home cooked ham, egg and chips. Free WiFi! Fantastic phone reception! Two Bridges Road, Princetown, Devon, PL20 6QS www.foxtorcafe.com 01822 890238

South Dartmoor Community College

‘achieving world class standards Tel: 01803 875281 through participation and performance’ [email protected]

Over 30 staff from the South Dartmoor Community College Academy will be running in the 2012 London Marathon in aid of Whizz-Kidz – the college’s chosen charity this year. Linhay Projects Ltd is a local building contracting company that Staff involvement in the marathon is an opportunity for staff to offers an honest approach to building services that can be tailored model themselves to students as learners who are prepared to to meet every requirement. take on challenges and work together to achieve extraordinary results. In today’s ever-demanding times, customers want good advice, a positive approach, value for money, quality, customer care and, In May 2010, OFSTED graded us as: above all, an achievable completion date. ‘An outstanding college with an ethos of high aspiration and • Linhay Projects use only professional trades that are tried and success for all, underpinned by a dynamic culture of learning tested to our high standards, in not only workmanship but and continuous improvement.’ customer care. • ‘The quality of relationships is superb, behaviour is excellent and the college community has a great sense of cohesion and Linhay Projects’ services include project management, design unity of purpose.’ services, conservation projects, listed buildings, new build, extensions, loft conversions, groundworks and renovations.

Linhay Projects is proud to be supporting the Dartmoor Discovery and the Teignbridge Trotters for this great event. Balland Lane, Ashburton, Devon, TQ13 7EW Tel: 01364 652230 Fax: 01364 654069

www.southdartmoor.devon.sch.uk Good luck to all the DD runners! [email protected]

[11] The DD attracts some of the nation’s most dedicated ultra runners. Meet two DD Diehards of them: Selina Da Silva and Bryan King.

within reach. Once the starting gun is fired up. Undeterred, I flagged the next car down on the 100th marathon, all the stress of and asked them to catch up the sweep Selina: (8 DDs) reaching the ultimate goal of 100 marathons vehicle. Luckily, the guys in the car were only is lifted. For me, that special moment came too happy to help. I did finish the race that at the 2003 Isle of Man Marathon. day and not in last place, as I managed to overtake a few runners on the final stretch Tell us about your DD journey. into Princetown. I marshalled the DD for a couple of years, taking a keen interest in how runners coped Any top tips for finishing the DD? with the distance (over 35 miles at the time). Try to prepare by running at least one hilly During my second year, I stood in the marathon, eg Cornish, Isle of Wight, pouring rain for five hours, and decided I Snowdonia or Great Langdale. Run the first would run it the next year. The race has section to Ashburton at an easy pace, always been special for me. The scenery, aiming to run through the town feeling fresh. weather, and hills combine to make every The hard work starts here! year unique. Phil Hampton’s impeccable race organisation has always made for a Tell us about your role with ARC*. great event and the Trotters have continued I am a director of ARC (Association of Tell us about your extraordinary marathon to maintain that high standard. Running Clubs) and currently hold the post and ultra haul. of treasurer. My working role is only a small I’ve completed 216 marathons and 49 What about the year you got lost? contribution to the work of my fellow ultras. My first marathon was the London, in I blame a missing marshal (well the World directors, but I do try to do some gentle 1995. Cup was on at the time!) I ran up a long hill lobbying for ARC whenever I can. I think to find myself lost on top of the moor. I ARC is the organisation that will contribute How did joining the 100 Marathon Club flagged down a Post Office van driver who most to preserve the heritage of our running feel? directed me towards Widecombe, where I clubs and races. After I’d completed 50 marathons, I joined ran into the village and rejoined the race the 100 Marathon Club as a ‘wannabe’. route. My three-mile detour had put me in *Editor’s note: The Teignbridge Trotters are Suddenly the target of 100 marathons felt last place and the drink station had packed proud to stage the DD under an ARC permit.

may do another 24-hour track run and 12- What advice you would give to DD first- hour run in Sussex later in the year. As long timers? Bryan: (11 DDs) as I’ve got two legs and an active mind one Try to stay relaxed from the first step to the of those four will always be the DD: I last. Start a minute-a-mile slower than your arrange my summer holiday around it! normal running pace. If it’s your first DD, Another favourite of mine is the Cornish you have a lot of experience around you, so Marathon, as this is an event that feels like ask for advice. Dedicate your run to an end-of-year reunion. In a way, it’s a someone special in you life. This will celebration of everyone’s achievements encourage you to put your best foot over the past 12 months – a nice way to forward and complete the course. A finish the year. support car can also help you through difficult times. Counting down the miles will You’ve done 11
DDs.
What stopped you make you mentally stronger. doing all 13? Naval commitments – I was at sea for the Tell us about the Plymouth Musketeers. 1998 race, but was very fortunate to be Around four years ago, three other runners able to complete in 11 DDs, thanks to good and myself formed the Plymouth health
and being shore-based. Musketeers. We now have 85 members of When did this marathon lark first start? all standards. I’m particularly proud this It was back in 1984. I entered the Dartmoor year, as there are seven members from the Marathon, which started and finished in You've run the DD in all weathers. What club (including four newbies) signed up to Tavistock. It was a fairly tough race, but not have been your best and worst run. (Bryan, 166, is pictured with fellow in the same league as the DD! moments? My best DD was in 2005 when I recorded Musketeer, Darren Dunridge). How many marathons have you run? my fastest time (5:10:38). The worst was MILOS ERBEN/ GRAHAM PENN I’ve done 113 marathons and ultras. I now the year the heavens opened and we were Any ambitions for the future? intend to do no more than four marathons running through deep puddles approaching Continue running well and possibly attempt or ultras per year due to work Ashburton. Although, to be fair, the sun did the world 24-hour treadmill record within commitments. If time and work permit, I come out during the last four miles! the next three years.

[12] Saturday, 9 June, 2012 DD DOSSIER

YOUR 4- PAGE COMPLETE RACE GUIDE STARTS HERE!

known medical problem, please place a red X YOU’RE OFF! on the front of both numbers. You will receive KEEP IT CLEAN your technical t-shirt when you complete Parking your registration. The DD is held within Dartmoor National Park, an area of outstanding beauty, and The Plume of Feathers has limited parking, Drinks and feeding stations can only take place with the kind on a first-come, first-served basis, available You can deposit your own drinks in the permission and co-operation of The only to those staying in the pub, bunkhouse clearly numbered boxes, up until 8.45am on Dartmoor National Park Authority, The or campsite. We kindly ask all other runners race day. These will be taken to the relevant Duchy of Cornwall, The Dartmoor and spectators to park in the school feeding stations on the course (see course Preservation Society, The Dartmoor playground (see Princeton and Race HQ plan map). We’ll provide labels and waterproof Tourist Association and all parish overleaf). Follow our marshals’ instructions pens. All you need to do is write your race councils through which the race passes. once in the car park. It’s massive, so finding number on the label and stick it to your a space will not be an issue. For the purpose bottle. Each feeding station will have a Please respect these hardworking groups of Sat Nav planning, the school’s postcode is choice of water or orange squash, jelly and the beautiful countryside through PL20 6QE. babies (the soft type, not those hard ones!) which you are running by disposing of and bananas, cut in halves. There will also be your empty drinks bottles and sponges in Registration sponges at each feeding station. the bins provided. These will be situated 50 metres past each of the feeding You will be able to register on Friday evening, stations. Please do not throw bottles and from 6pm to 8pm at Princetown’s primary Non-starters sponges over a hedge or into the verge, school (see plan overleaf) or on Saturday If you’ve entered the race but decided not to where they will pose a danger to wildlife morning, between 7.15am and 8.45am (also run, please inform someone at registration, and the ponies, sheep and cattle that at the school). Once registered, we’ll issue (you may still collect your t-shirt). It’s vital that MILOS ERBEN wander at will on the moor. you with race numbers. These need to be we give St John’s an accurate number of pinned to the front and back of your running starters. We take your safety seriously, so we Feeding stations are only three miles top. Please do not alter them in any way. need to be able to account for everyone out apart so, if you miss a bin, please carry Please fill in the medical form on the reverse on the moor. It can be an unforgiving place, your bottle or sponge to the next station. of at least one of the numbers. If you have a especially in extreme weather.

[13] Princetown Site Plan

Changing, toilets and Course toilets Cut-off points baggage There are various toilets on the course: 9M The male and female changing areas are — New Bridge Car Park; 13M — Ashburton Centre, on left just before Due to the nature of Dartmoor and the at the school, as are the toilets. Please be aware these are designed for children but turning left for Buckland in the Moor; 20M likelihood that some of our members will be are perfectly adequate. There are more — Widecombe-in-the-Moor car park. out on the moor for the best part of the day, toilets at the Plume of Feathers and the we have imposed a strict race cut-off time of Fox Tor Cafe. There will be a secure Animals on the road six-and-a-half hours. This equates to an baggage area in one of the school Please be tolerant if you’re held up by average speed of 12-minute miling. There classrooms. Each bag must be labelled animals on the road. Most of the route is are three cut-off checkpoints (see map, with your race number (we’ll provide a through unfenced countryside and there is opposite). You must reach them in the label at registration). You can collect your nothing the race committee can do to stop required times to be able to continue in the bag from the finish area after the race. You animals wandering along or mustering on race: 13M (Ashburton) — 2:46; 20M must produce your race number to retrieve the road. It’s all part of the allure of the (Rugglestone Inn) — 4hrs; Marathon — 5:15. your bag. DD, so take a chill pill if things suddenly get a little more rural than you’re used to! If you miss any of the cut-off times, we’ll Start Please use the gates to the side of cattle grids. Don’t try to dance across the rails: politely ask you to withdraw from the race. The race starts at 9.30am, in the centre of you’ll be risking serious injury. Transport will be provided to the finish. Princetown, by the mini-roundabout. Obviously, we can’t physically remove you Please assemble 10 minutes before the from the race, but we hope you’ll adhere to start (we’ll give you plenty of warning), MP3 players our request in order to safeguard the future between the Plume of Feathers and the Due to the narrowness of many of the Old Railway Inn, not on the main road, as lanes on the course, the wearing of MP3

of the event. If you do choose to continue, NICK STEVENS this will still be open to traffic. The Race players or similar devices is strictly please note that all marshals, signage, Director will deliver a short safety briefing forbidden. Please be sensible and adhere feeding stations and medical cover will have before getting you under way with the loud to this. We don’t want to disqualify you if been withdrawn from the course. bang from a rocket. (It’s his trademark!) you ignore our request.

[14] NICK STEVENS

[15] Road protocol Due to the narrow roads over Dartmoor please run on the left-hand side of the road, RACE TRAFFIC NEAR ASHBURTON in single file whenever possible, unless directed otherwise by a marshal.

Split times Your split times will be recorded at the following distances: 10K, 20K, 30K, Marathon, and 50K. These will be forwarded to you via email after the race.

Finish Our time keepers will record everyone’s finishing time up to the 6:30 cut-off point. On crossing the line, you’ll be presented with a unique finisher’s medal. We appreciate that runners’ requirements differ on finishing such a gruelling race, so our catering team will be on hand to look after you. It’ll all be there, from a simple sit-down and a cup of tea, to sandwiches, hot soup and flapjacks. It’s all free, too! Blankets will also be available if the weather turns cold, which is a possibility, even in June. If you don’t fancy anything Ashburton is a busy town with narrow streets, where excess traffic could when you cross the line, please feel free to be dangerous. Supporters’ vehicles must avoid Ashburton by taking the return for something later, once you’ve diversion shown above. Follow the race route as normal for 11.3 miles, showered and composed yourself. until you reach Lent Hill Junction, which is half a mile past Holne Bridge. There is a marshal at Lent Hill, instructing runners to keep straight on for Showers Ashburton. At Lent Hill, turn left and proceed straight on past Adams Shower facilities are limited to four units (two Hele until you reach Hele Cross, just half mile from the Lent Hill turning. Turn left and, after a quarter of a mile, meet the Buckland road at Water male and two female), at the Plume of Turn. Turn left and follow the race route. Please be careful when you Feathers Inn. Please don’t linger too long in reach the main Buckland road, because there will be runners on it, the showers if there are runners waiting. If heading towards Buckland in the Moor. you are staying in the Fox Tor Cafe, please use their showers, to free up the ones at the Plume of Feathers.

RACE TRAFFIC NEAR WIDECOMBE

The road to Widecombe-in-the-Moor from Stone Cross Junction (17.5M) is very narrow and steep in places and there have been some near-accidents involving runners and race-related traffic. To avoid this danger, the road to Pudsham Down and Widecombe-in- the-Moor from Stone Cross junction is closed to all supporters and back-up teams. They must turn left at Stone Cross junction and re-join the race route at Church Lane Head junction and Eastern Lane junction. See the plan, right, for the route supporters NICK STEVENS need to take. There will be marshals stationed at Stone Cross, Church Lane Head and Eastern Lane junctions to assist.

[16] On My Radio

Dom Smith, of the Devon Radio Club, lifts the lid on the DD’s complex communications challenge.

of a marathon for those of CommCen staff are in constant contact us who provide the with the St John Ambulance and, because cocommunications.mmunicat some of the radio club’s checkpoints are co-sited with race marshals, we can easily EEachach year, get messages to organisers for sending Dartmoor tthishi minibuses to runners who have dropped calling: the cchallengeh out, for example. club’s specialist iiss taken on antenna. by the Because we have the information DarDartmoor available, we also provide the race Radio Club, a commentator at the finish line with the As he climbsclimbs ththeeh hillill to Buckland-in-the-Buckland-in-the- grogroupup of loclocala radio number of each runner as he or she Moor, Dave starts to tire. He’s only halfway amateurs. ‘Ham radio’ is ideal for this approaches the finish. around the course, and is running behind event because our licences permit us to the majority of the field now. Dave realises use much higher powers than other that it is unlikely he will be able to finish. services, and we have the technical As he considers his options, Dave knowledge to erect specialist antennas, for misjudges his step and twists his ankle. example. Our solution is to have a number of checkpoints at locations chosen to While this account is entirely fictional, ensure that they are all either in direct every year we are faced with a similar radio range of our Communications Centre situation. ‘Dave’ potentially finds himself in (‘CommCen’) in Princetown, or within one a predicament; he is in an area of the moor relay ‘hop’ of it. We also have club with unreliable mobile telephone coverage, members in the lead and sweep vehicles. and so he probably has no means of contacting anybody. On shorter races, the Checkpoints regularly report back to the In 2012011,1 we expexperimentederimented wiwithth usiusingng GPS St John Ambulance would probably pass CommCen with the number of every tracking devices connected to radios, so him shortly afterwards to collect him but runner that has passed them, and any we knew exactly where some of the main the Dartmoor Discovery course is too long other messages from the organisers. Once race vehicles were at all times, using a and runners too spread-out to rely on this. this information is collated, some software, written by myself, calculates the relay station at Bel Tor. This additional data Furthermore, the ambulance radios do not approximate position of each runner, was extremely useful, and so we are likely have sufficient coverage to extend across based on a combination of factors (see to use this technology more in 2012. All the course, particularly given the below left). The software alerts us to any our efforts are intended to help keep you undulating terrain. The DD offers its runners who are overdue reaching a safe while you compete. You can help us participants a genuine challenge but this certain checkpoint, and also estimates by keeping your runner number visible at means the event also presents something their final arrival time. We can generally all times and, if you abandon the race, calculate an ETA for each runner, accurate make sure a marshal knows whether to within about five minutes, once only a you’ve been collected or need collection. couple of hours have elapsed. If you are interested in finding out more, The software also updates a Google Earth Dartmoor Radio Club meets on the first Thursday of each month in Yelverton War JOHN LUDLAM/ DOM SMITH map (with OS overlay) with the estimated positions of each runner on the course, Memorial Hall, at 19.30. You can contact helping us to visualise in real time where the Secretary, Viv Watson, on the runners are. [email protected]

[17] Footsteps of a ghost

John’s third ‘ghost’ race, the Nottingham 15, in April 1957.

The John Tarrant Trophy, awarded to theth firstfi t malel over 40, is one of the DD’s most closely contested prizes. Who was John Tarrant and why was he dubbed the Ghost Runner? Julian Head tells John’s extraordinary story.

John Tarrant’s story, a
compelling mix professional and was given a six-month had breached the very strict amateur rules of
love, devotion and a courageous trial with trainer Ted Douglas in Stockport. which existed at the time. Ironically, £17 struggle against unfeeling authority, offers Ted ultimately rejected John as a prospect would not have even covered his travelling a fascinating insight into the world of but declared that, ‘if fitness was all that expenses to and from Stockport. British athletics in the 1950s and 1960s. mattered in boxing, John Tarrant would be In 1957, after five years of rebuttals from world champion.’ John was born in London in 1932. He and the AAA, John decided to gatecrash an his younger brother, Victor, were separated John decided to try running and made an organised event and put right a grave from their parents at an early age, after application to the local Amateur Athletics injustice. After a couple of abandoned their father was called up during World War efforts, John travelled to Liverpool for the Two and their mother became too ill to City of Liverpool Marathon, wracked with cope, eventually dying of tuberculosis. The severe doubts as to whether he was doing boys were sent to Lamorbey Children’s the right thing. Only three people knew of Home, in Sidcup, Kent, where the regime the plan — John, his wife, Edie, and Victor. was brutal at times and beatings were John did not finish the race and attracted regularly dispensed for the most trivial unfavourable attention from some of the misdemeanours. John found an outlet in other runners. However,
in leading for a running, surprising himself by competing in good deal of the time in an un-numbered and winning a half-mile race during a top, he attracted the attention of a number school sports day. The following year, he of local and national papers, especially the trained for the same event and won again. Daily Express, which labelled him the Ghost Runner. Although downcast In 1948, their father, by then remarried, immediately after the race, John quickly returned for the boys and took them to live realised that the distance was twice as in the spa town of Buxton, Derbyshire, far
as he had ever run before and that he where John became a plumber’s mate. In should have tried it years earlier. 1950, he joined a local boxing club. Able to COURTESY MAINSTREAM PUBLISHING withstand pain as a result of his Lamorbey Association (AAA) affiliated club. What Victor became involved in subsequent days and physically fit, John had found a John did not realise was that, by earning a appearances of the Ghost Runner, taking sport that appealed to him. He turned paltry £17 for his boxing endeavours, he John to events on his motorcycle. ‘As

[18] ‘John Tarrant was made in the mettle of great men.’

John’s fame grew, organisers made winning races such as the Liverpool to named after him in Hereford, where he strenuous efforts to bar him from their Blackpool 48-miler three times and the settled with his family, and his legacy will races,’ Victor explained to The Discoverer. Exeter to Plymouth 44-miler five times. He live on in a recently published book, The ‘Travelling by motorcycle had advantages. also held world records at 40 miles Ghost Runner — The Tragedy Of The Man We could assess the start and changing (4:03:28) and 100 miles (12:31:10). John They Couldn’t Stop (available on Amazon). areas more easily, and I could follow the also met with great success in the ultra The book’s author, Bill Jones, stumbled runners in readiness for any trouble. There runners’ Holy Grail, the London to Brighton across the John Tarrant story while working were occasions when they physically tried 55-mile event, which he won twice. At that as a documentary maker for Granada to remove John from a race and a quick time, the winner was given funding to Television. He got the chance to tell John’s getaway might be necessary.’ attend the 56-mile Comrades’ Marathon in story, after approaching Mainstream South Africa. However, because of his As John’s story
became better known, Publishing. In a bizarre coincidence, one of domestic-only AAA status, John was never fellow athletes began to recognise the Mainstream’s editors had run with John in awarded this sum. He did, however, numberless runner
and were generally his prime. The editor even had a picture of receive assistance from a local friendly, often forming a protective circle John on his wall and had urged his businessman, whose imagination had been around
him. Some race directors even colleagues to grasp with both hands any captured by John’s story. invited him to races, believing the publicity opportunity they came across to publish would boost competitor numbers and tthe story. The book came out in 2011 crowd support. Amid campaigning by aand was shortlisted for the William Hill newspapers including the Daily SSports Book of The Year. Express and letters to running TThe Ghost Runner is not just a story magazines, the AAA came under ever aabout a runner. It is a story of more pressure to licence John. bbrotherly love, and of the love Eventually, in 1958, an intervention by bbetween John and Edie, his devoted legendary runner Harold Abrahams, wwife. ‘The injustice served upon John whose achievements were aand his dedication to training prayed immortalised in the film, Chariots of oon my mind for many years before I Fire, led to John being reinstated as hhad a chance to write the book,’ Bill an amateur. When the terse letter ttold The Discoverer. ‘And, although arrived, John asked Edie to read it TThe Ghost Runner is a journey over and over again, in case there was So, in 1968, the numberless Ghost Runner through desperate sadness, it is a catch. reappeared in South Africa (pictured interspersed with dedication, love, hope There was. The reinstatement only related above), finishing an unofficial fourth in his and kindness in equal measure. The book to domestic competition. John was never first attempt at the Comrades. He also will also ring true for anyone who has to realise his dream of representing Great competed in
and won the Goldtop, a non- encountered bureaucracy in any field.’ Britain at the Olympics, or anywhere racial 50-mile race, in 1970 and 1971. Race DD founder Phil Hampton regularly abroad. He had hoped to embarrass the organiser Rajendra Chetty, of the non-racial competed with John and conceived the authorities when he competed in the 1960 Natal Runners’ Association,
remarked that idea of the John Tarrant Trophy, enlisting Olympic Marathon Trials, but lost out to ‘John Tarrant was made in the mettle of the help of John’s son, Vic. John was Brian Kilby. It was widely thought that great men.’ running long before the DD or the Rome's hilly Olympic course and heat on John's tragically short life ended in January Teignbridge Trotters were born but those the day would have suited John more than 1975, after a battle with late-diagnosed that knew him confirm that he would have Kilby, who came 29th. stomach cancer. No one who knew him will revelled in the challenging hills and

COURTESY MAINSTREAM PUBLISHING After his failure to gain international ever forget his bravery and determination, spectacular scenery of Dartmoor. John honours at the marathon, John turned his or the lost potential of the years spent Tarrant would have made the Dartmoor attention to the ultramarathon scene, fighting the authorities. He has a street Discovery his own.

[19] Czech mate

He delighted us with his spirited third place in 2011. So what is it about the DD that is luring Czech runner Roman Pavlu back to Dartmoor this year?

Roman flies the Czech flag

thet route didn’t help. But the organ- Nordic skiing, which is great cross You’re a keen memberer ofof youryour isationi was perfect. The feeding training. I’d love to be able to get my running club, tell us about it. stations, marshals and even the marathon PB closer to 2:40 at some Yes I am. I’ve been a member of SK weather were great and I loved the time during 2012. I also want to have a Jeseniova running club for 15 years. route. I had never run further than a go at a 100-km race in France later in It’s a club with a great tradition marathon before, so the last 10km the year. But before all that there is the stretching back more than 50 years. It were a true discovery for me, having mighty challenge of the DD! pools most of its members from to battle with other competitors as Jeseniova primary and secondary well as my own tired legs. school in my hometown, Prague, One of last year’s great moments PREVIOUS DD WINNING TEAMS where I work as an athletics trainer. was seeing you cross the finishing We have about 500 members, out of line waving the Czech flag aloft. MEN which 120 are senior athletes. How did that come about? 2011 100 Marathon Club I got the idea of finishing with the Have you run other marathons? 2010 Teignbridge Trotters Czech flag at the Reading Half 2009 Teignbridge Trotters I ran my first marathon, the Prague Marathon in 2009. I crossed the line 2008 Royal Navy AC International Marathon, when I was with the flag over my head and it was 2007 Royal Navy AC 18. I was the youngest contender and an incredible feeling, amplified by a 2006 Road Runners Club finished in 3:43:39. I then had a gap, PB. I took the flag with me again to 2005 Crawley AC while I pursued a ‘musical career’, the DD, just in case I ran well and I 2004 Teignbridge Trotters playing in a band. Last year, however, I could show again that I am proud to 2003 Road Runners Club became very focussed on lowering my represent my country. 2002 Southampton AC times. I managed a new PB of 2:49:45 2000 Tipton Harriers for the marathon and 1:18:15 for the Could you do even better this year? 1999 Tipton Harriers half. I consider my greatest When I finished last year’s DD, I 1998 CDO ORD SQN (Army) achievement the third place I came at promised myself that I would come last year’s DD. It was my first ultra! back and try for a top finish again, but LADIES it’s not an ultimate goal, as the 2011 Marshall Milton Keynes AC How did you hear about the DD? Dartmoor countryside is really 2010 Teignbridge Trotters My friend, Milan Goc (a DD regular beautiful and I want to be able to 2009 Bearbrook Joggers and member of Sidmouth Running appreciate it. Having said that, I would 2008 Somer AC Club), had been beckoning me to like to get my finishing time down to 2007 Somer AC come over and run for the past couple four hours. 2006 Somer AC of years, but I lacked confidence and 2005 Somer AC training. But, last year, I decided to Has the training started in earnest? 2004 Avon Valley Runners give it a go. I’m running to and from work a couple of times a week, which is 32km. I’m 2003 Women’s Running Network 2002 n/a GRAHAM PENN And what did you make of the race? complementing that with longer 2000 n/a I felt respect for the race before I distance runs and speed sessions. I 1999 n/a started, as 52km was a distance I had want to be doing 400km of running 1998 n/a never covered before and not knowing per month. I’m also doing some

[20] Open to non-residents for morning coffee, light lunches, afternoon tea and dinner. Owners Fi and Chris Daly welcome you to the Prince Hall Country House Hotel, in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. Located on the Dartmoor Discovery route just over two miles from Princetown, the nine-bedroom Prince Hall Hotel is small enough to retain an intimate feel and large enough to cater for all your needs. Built in 1787 and commanding breathtaking views over the West Dart river, the Prince Hall Hotel welcomes guests with roaring fires, comfy armchairs, elegant, en-suite bedrooms and great cuisine.

Sunday lunch offer: three courses only £19.95. Booking advised.

www.princehall.co.uk +44 (0)1822 890403

East Dart Hotel The Oratory B&B and The Beeches Self Catering 19th Century Coaching Inn

Lovely Spacious B&B and S/C in Princetown the heart of Dartmoor. Family and Dog Friendly. Pubs and Cafes a short walk away The Chapel Annex, Double rooms and a two bedroom self contained property The choice is yours. Recommended by

New owners Paul and Rosie Joynson, and their twins Dominic and Sylvia, look forward to providing you with the perfect visit to glorious Trip Advisor Dartmoor. Paul has more than 22 years’ experience in the licensing trade and Rosie comes from Jersey, an island with a great culinary heritage. Together, they look after all the details that ensure a memorable stay. Tel: 01822 890273 The hotel has nine comfortable, en-suite rooms, including a family room and a honeymoon suite. Downstairs, there’s a warm welcome waiting in the bar and restaurant, which serves a delicious selection of meals and snacks. On Sundays, treat you and your family to the wonderful Carvery, with a www.theoratorydartmoor.co.uk choice of 3 roasts, locally sourced, with the usual accompaniments and a large selection of vegetables, only £8.25 or a children's portion for only £6.25. From midday onwards, until the roasts run out! Booking advisable. Postbridge, Dartmoor, Devon, PL20 6TJ www.theeastdarthotel.co.uk 01822 880213

[21] Pasta party!

If you’ve ever taken part in a big and gossip about the challenge city marathon, you’ll be familiar ahead – or just gossip! with the concept of the pasta party. The DD may not have as many It’s a great way for runners to get entrants as the London Marathon together on the eve of a big race but we reckon you lot will be just as hungry. So get yourself along too the DD Pasta Party, on Friday, 8 Menu June, from 6.30pm-8.30pm. At justst £5.50 for all you can eat, it’s a reall Spaghetti Bolognese recession-buster, too. Browse the Macaroni Cheese menu on your left for a taster of thehe delicious grub on offer. Spinach & Mushroom Tagliatelle You need to book in advance through the Race Director, Roger Selection of Salads Hayes, on 01626 773562, or emaill Garlic Bread [email protected]. You pay uss on the night. The last date you cann All for £5.50! reserve a place is Tuesday 5 June.. Buon appetito!

Party on down!

Any DD veteran will tell you that there’s only one place to be after you have run, shuffled or hobbled your way around 32 miles of Dartmoor’s toughest byways. And that place is the legendary DD Disco.

Yes, you heard us right – a disco. If you’re new to the DD, you can be forgiven for thinking that the most effective cure for your aching legs is a nice cup of Horlicks in front of a soothing repeat of Inspector Morse.

But this is the DD and we don’t do Horlicks! So, make sure you pack your glad rags as well as your running kit, and get ready to discover that the best therapy for aching legs is a jolly good dose of strutting your funky stuff.

The fun kicks off at Race HQ, from 7.30pm until midnight. It’s free for all runners and supporters. Lots of marshals will be there, too. But don’t ask them for directions...

[22] First-timer

Karen Ives, from Huntingdon, is a woman in search of hills as she trains for her first DD.

the 2011 Brighton Marathon. I trained What training have you in mind to all winter, with a bit more structure, prepare for those daunting hills? and completed it in 5.29. I was I try to incorporate hillwork into my pleased to have finished but yet again weekly training schedule already, but I wanted to go faster. This time, I live on the edge of the Fens so who started looking properly at nutrition, am I kidding? I’m off to the Lake How did you get into running? speedwork, tempo runs and interval District for a few days. It’s a favourite I have been running on and off for training and spent the summer place of mine and an ideal way to get about six years. At first, I wasn’t improving. It worked. From an average familiar with some proper hills. I’m interested in times. I never took a 12-minute miler, I am now an average also looking into Pilates as a way to watch. I just ran when I felt like it until nine-minute miler and three stone strengthen my core. It’s something I got tired and went home. I had no lighter!
I’m aiming to complete a sub- I’ve always been aware of but never idea how far or how fast I was four-hour spring marathon and I’m quite got round to addressing. Taking running. Then, a couple of years ago,
I well on track to do that this time. on an ultra means serious work in this entered a half marathon. I enjoyed it, area. Because of the lack of local hills, started becoming aware of pace and What made you choose the DD over I fear that I’m also going to have to hit distance, and decided I wanted to run other ultras or marathons? the dreaded treadmill and learn how faster. Stupidly, I just tried to run I was reading an article explaining to use the incline setting a bit more! faster, which of course didn’t work. In that, as we get older, our speed and fact, I started hating the thought of strength may decrease but our Will you be coming to the pre-race going out at all. endurance increases. It suggested pasta party and post-race disco? that ultramarathons suit older, slower I’m running the DD with an old school How did you get back on track? runners. That was it, I wanted to try friend who I’ve met again after 20 I realised how much I missed running one! The DD is perfect. It has got the years, only to discover that she is also and decided, OK, I can’t run fast but perfect location, surroundings, timing a runner. So you can bet your life we’ll maybe I can run
further. So I entered and distance. be there, partying down!

Meet the ace photographers who’ll super snappers be documenting your DD triumphs.

With four DDs under her Road Runners Club Graham ‘Inky’ Penn has a belt, Julia Proctor veteran Dave Cooper newshound’s nose for a knows more than most knows all the DD picture. A former about the agony and the stalwarts. At the same Trotters’ Press and ecstasy of taking on time he’s always looking Publicity Officer, he’ll CONTRIBUTED/ GRAHAM PENN/ DAVE COOPER/ JULIA PROCTOR Dartmoor and living to out for new faces, so be looking to tell your tell the tale. keep on smiling... DD story in images.

[23] DD record holders

CATEGORY NAME CLUB TIME YEAR

Male Course Record Mike Feighan Bideford AC 3.36.18 2002

MV40 Mark Croasdale Royal Navy AC 3.43.44 2009

MV45 Alan Ryder Erme Valley Harriers 3.43.43 2009

MV50 Graham Baker Road Running Club 4.17.46 2002

MV55 Peter Mensley Charnwood AC 4.20.10 2008

MV60 Patrick Lockett Newquay Road Runners 4.32.20 2008

MV65 Bob Emmerson Leamington C & AC 4.53.27 2002

CATEGORY NAME CLUB TIME YEAR

Female Course Record Adela Salt Trentham Running Club 4.02.36 2008

FV35 Adela Salt Trentham Running Club 4.02.36 2008

FV40 Heather Foundling Hawker Honiton AC 4.05.38 2006

FV45 Diane Roy East Cornwall Harriers 4.29.50 2011

FV50 Jane Bremner Tamar Trotters 4.57.21 2007

FV55 Jenny Mills Launceston Road Runners 5.07.30 2006

New M/F course records receive £100 cash. Any new vet course record receives £25 cash. Set them both and you’ll get £125! As with all Trotters races, one person can win more than one prize! Post-race massage service

There’s no getting away from it: 32 miles of Dartmoor roads takes it out of your legs. So we have hooked up with The Massage Clinic to offer those poor pooped pins some free post-race TLC.

The Massage Clinic team will be on hand at the Railway Inn, next to the finish area, to rub some life back into your legs, just in time for the post-race disco. Enjoy!

[24] The Rugglestone Inn The Rugglestone Inn is a unique, un spoilt Badgers Holt Dartmoor inn delightfully located in the picturesque village of Widecombe in the Moor. Originally a cottage the grade II listed at Dartmeet, Princetown, Devon PL20 6SG building was converted to an inn back in 1832 THE MOST FAMOUS TEAROOMS ON THE MOOR and named after a local logan stone. It is Badger’s Holt, a former fi shing lodge, provides an idyllic surrounded by peaceful moorland, adjacent Dartmoor setting for morning coffee, hot and cold snacks, to a pretty stream and just a few minutes walk lunch, three course meal or just a relaxing drink by the river. from the centre of the village. The perfect venue for your wedding, offi ce party or Christmas function. Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ13 7TF A day on the moor is not complete without a Booking/Telephone: 01364 621327 Badger’s Holt Traditional Cream Tea Email: [email protected] (the same secret recipe for over 50 years) www.rugglestoneinn.co.uk Open 10am til 6pm seven days a week, March ‘til January SPECIAL OFFER SHORT BREAKS FOR WINTER 2010/11 t
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[25] Number swaps

Whoops, the wheels have come off! Don’t worry, we can help if you have to pull out of the race and wish to pass on your number.

Training for a demanding event such as the 1. Check www.teignbridgetrotters.co.uk for forget the £3 cheque: it covers the cost of a DD is bound to entail injury risks. And all the list of contact details of runners hoping new magazine. runners have to fit races in around family to secure a race number. and work commitments. Actually turning up 4. Once the Race Director receives the on the day fit to run is a significant logistical 2. Contact the person at the top of the list. transfer form and £3 cheque, he will achievement in itself. We do understand Get them to download the transfer form remove the new entrant from the top of the that, sometimes, it just isn’t possible to (which will also be on our website). Once waiting list and inform them that they have take up a place you committed to months they’ve filled it in and signed it, they need been successful. previously. to forward it to you, along with a £3 cheque made payable to the Teignbridge Trotters If you wish to pass on your number and you If you do drop out, we can help you get and a cheque made payable to yourself for have a clubmate or friend who you know your money back and ensure your place whatever sum you have agreed. wants to run, then you are at liberty to isn’t wasted. In 2011, 29 people managed approach them directly and follow the same to swap their numbers through our system. 3. You then need to fill in your section of the procedure as above. The last date for This year, the race is full already, so the same transfer form and return it to: receiving any transfer forms will be number swap service is likely to be popular Dartmoor Discovery, 69 Teignmouth Road, Saturday, 2 June. The Race Director will again. Here’s the procedure. Teignmouth, Devon, TQ14 8UR. Don’t have the final say over all number swaps.

Glittering prizes

Getting among the prizes may be a distant dream for the majority of DD runners, but take Prize list a look to your right and you’ll see that there is a pretty long list All winners receive a gorgeous, engraved crystal of trophies on offer. glass trophy! 1st M&F £60 IBR voucher So, if you are a bit useful – or if you think that you and your 2nd M&F £30 IBR voucher comrades might make up a 3rd M&F £25 IBR voucher decent team – there’s plenty of 4th M&F £20 IBR voucher incentive to put in that extra bit 5th M £15 IBR voucher of effort. 6th M £15 IBR voucher There are some handy Iron- 7th M £15 IBR voucher bridge Runner gift vouchers up 1st FV35, 40, 45, 50, 55 £15 IBR voucher for grabs at the sharp end. The 1st MV40, 45, 50, 55, 60 £15 IBR voucher race organisers are offering hard 2nd FV35, 40, 45, 50, 55 trophy only cash for record-breakers. And all winners walk away with a 2nd MV40, 45, 50, 55, 60 trophy only splendid, engraved crystal glass 1st M & F newcomer £15 IBR voucher trophy like the 2011 example 1st, 2nd, 3rd Male Teams (3 to count) trophy only

pictured on the left. 1st, 2nd, Female Teams (3 to count) trophy only MILOS ERBEN/ GRAHAM PENN Grit your teeth and get a wiggle £100 cash for M & F course record! on: you never know what might £25 cash for MV & FV records! happen!

[26] Cruel mistress

John Skinner ponders the capricious impulses of a loverlove with the coldest arms.

John crosses the line after a DD lashing in 2008

Something was definitely afoot. Roger day, I waswasd drawnrawnt toot thehe moor,moor curiouscuriou to be back on the moor with my fellow ‘Smokin’ Hales and Mike Hill, their heads witness this seemingly insane spectacle. Trotters. bowed furtive and conspiratorial, were That was ten years ago and the event was We link arms in a brotherly way and set off tucked away in a shadowy corner of a very different beast back then, a much into the jaws of the glowering storm. After Newton Abbot’s White Hart public house. I more isolated and lonely experience, with weathering the initial onslaught, we start joined them for a pint and they spoke to far fewer runners and only a sparse to enjoy the moor in all her rugged beauty. me of the Dartmoor Discovery, a little- scattering of spectators. The milky cloud But the moor is a cruel mistress and things known but legendary event. I sat there hung low that year and, from the moment I steadily deteriorate. Before long, we are wide-eyed, a child transfixed. On the big spied Mike emerging from the mist, I was engaged in an epic battle against sold. It was not an option: there and then I impossibly fierce conditions. The gale is vowed to enter the following year. blasting us with salvo after salvo of Since that time, I have completed five DDs horizontal rain and hail. I’m not worried — Race diary after all, am I not with my fellow Trotters, and have found Dartmoor a cruel mistress, capable of breathtaking betrayal. She lulls my comrades? Being the weakest runner, I take solace in the fact that I’m in the The DD is not the only you into a false sense of security before charge of three such experienced and Teignbridge Trotters turning with savage malevolence, leaving race. We’ve been even the hardiest of warriors a shivering high-profile DD veterans. organising events for and bemused empty vessel, incapable of The moor, however, has other ideas. She more than a quarter of coherent thought. Alternatively, she may is sowing those seeds of betrayal. One by a century. Here’s a carry you on gossamer wings from miserable one, my esteemed companions list of our 2012 races. Princetown to Princetown in a display of disappear into the howling, darkening such benevolence that you might consider distance. Somehow the moor has split us her a friend for life. Beware, for next year and it is now every man for himself. Westward League Cross she will once again betray. Strange, for Eventually, after a harrowing trek, I make it Country, Bovey Tracey: despite her uncompromising, masculine to Princetown, battered, bemused and Sunday, 12 February savagery, I consider the moor a ‘she’ — a betrayed. When I say betrayed, I’m not Dartmoor Discovery: cruel mistress indeed. referring to my companions: let’s face it, I Saturday, 9 June would definitely have done the same. I’m Allow me to offer a modest example. referring, of course, to the moor. Beware Haytor Heller: Saturday, 21 July Picture, if you will, a Sunday morning in her, for she will befriend you and betray the wrong half of May. Four of us are Totnes 10K: Sunday, 5 August you in equal measure. Who knows, she staring glumly out at the rain lashing an may even compel you to desert your Newton Abbot Ladies’ 10K: Ashburton car park. We are planning to chums, leaving them to a grim and Sunday, 23 September run the second half of the DD. My training uncertain fate… JOHN LUDLAM has not been good: this is an attempt at Templer Ten: Sunday, 4 last-minute cramming. I have had a rather Editor’s note: the names of the author’s November heavy Saturday evening, my backache is faithless ‘comrades’ have been redacted thundering like fury and yet I am excited to from this article to spare their blushes.

[27] A rather important date for your diary! The next Dartmoor Discovery: Saturday, 1 June, 2013 Entry forms available from September 2012

South Dartmoor Community College

[28]