the discoverer official magazine 2013

[1] CONTENTS 2012 race 3 Welcome Julian Head 4 Busy Izzie looks back at a memorable DD. 6 Tamar Trotters report 8 Apeldoorn Marathon 10 Hall of Fame Anyone visiting Dartmoor two days before getting back to Princetown in one piece. 12 Quadzilla the 2012 DD must have wondered how the ‘Princetown Prison was a sight for sore organisers would manage to stage this eyes!’ he recalls. He commends everyone dramatic event. Trees were leaning steeply who conquers the DD: ‘I understand now under gale force winds and Princetown was how tough it is, and it really is a massive hit by an unseasonable deluge. achievement for any runner to complete it.’

Two days on, the wind had dropped, the sun Isobel Wykes, last year’s lady winner, agrees made an appearance and a field of nearly wholeheartedly. She has an appetite for 200 hardy ultra-distance runners readied something the DD has plenty of – hills. ‘Hills themselves for 32 miles of switchback are good!’ she declares. ‘I do a lot of training 13 DD Dossier Complete ascent and descent. on the South West Coast Path and that helps make your legs strong, so you can go The race was won by Bideford AC’s John Race Guide all the way up without stopping!’ Isobel Ward in a stunning course record of 3.33.36. certainly wasn’t stopping during the 2012 18 100 Marathon Club He smashed the previous course record by race: you can read all about her thoughts for more than two-and-a-half minutes. 20 Family Affair the 2013 event on page four. The Discoverer spoke to John for his take on 22 Party, Party! the race. He recalls last year’s run with While John would love to run the DD again affection, although he was not over- one day, he is concentrating his efforts for 23 First-timer confident going into the DD because a shin 2013 on the Jungfrau Mountain Marathon in 24 DD Record Book injury had curtailed his training. Interlaken, Switzerland. This is a tough, ‘Nevertheless, I was determined to run the spectacular race, which includes an ascent 26 Number Swaps and Dartmoor Discovery, as I had heard so many of around 1500m in the last 10-11 miles of good things about it,’ he says. the race. It finishes at the base of the North Prize List Face of the Eiger and underpinned the 2012 As a result of his training problem, John World Mountain Marathon Championship. 27 The Dark Place adopted a cautious approach. But he was lucky enough to be running alongside John sums up the DD beautifully. ‘It’s the Exmouth Harrier Dave Stone, a former little things that collectively make the winner of the event with nine DDs under his Dartmoor Discovery such a unique event. The Discoverer belt. (The pair are pictured below.) By mile The devil is in the detail. For instance, the 15, John was feeling more confident: ‘As way the personal drinks are distributed soon as I hit the bottom of the long climb out around the course and individually handed Editor: John Ludlam of Ashburton I kind of got going.’ He out as you run by. Everyone helps ensure all Reporter: Julian Head eventually reeled in the two long-time runners are treated as individuals and Photos: Julia Proctor, Pete leaders and, after that, it was a matter of properly looked after.’ We hope you agree. Royle, Dave Cooper, John Ludlam Images: Nick Stevens, Paul Banks Thanks to everyone who contributed to the magazine

Printed by Swift Print, 2 High Street, Dawlish, EX7 9HP PETE ROYLE Cover: Debbie Burman, South Devon AC, pictured at Soussons Wood. Photo: Julia Proctor.

[2] Welcome RACE TEAM

DD Race Director Race Director: Roger Hayes can’t Roger Hayes wait for 1 June. Secretary: Noel Fowler Chief Marshal: Tarquin Milford Sector Marshals: Jan Welcome to the 2013 edition of The For those of you staying in or around Caunter, Mark Becker, Discoverer. It’s a little later than last year Princetown, I hope you will join us for the but we felt publishing it closer to race day Friday evening pasta party (details on Rod Payne, Jacki Woon it would whet your appetite that bit more. page 22). You will be able to register for (below, number 46) After all, those hills are definitely the race on Friday night and we would something to look forward to! encourage as many of you as possible to do so. Then, of course, there is the We’ve got plenty in store for you in this legendary disco on Saturday evening. This year’s mag, including interviews with both year it promises to be some party. In the men’s and ladies’ winners (pages two addition to celebrating the achievement of and four), features on two of the clubs that all those that completed the race, three help make the DD so special (pages six runners will also be celebrating their 100th and eighteen), race reports from the marathons. They are no strangers to Apeldoorn marathon and the Quadzilla Dartmoor: the trio have clocked up 27 (pages eight and twelve) and a fascinating DDs between them! follow-up piece on ultra running legend Course Director: John Tarrant and his family (page twenty). Once again, we have managed to secure the services of the Exeter Massage Clinic. Dave Dunn Last year’s race set a new record for the They did a fantastic job last year: their Asst Course Directors: number of finishers. A total of 175 runners team of seven masseurs worked their crossed the line and, encouragingly, we magic on some very tired legs. This Nathan Elphick, did not have to pull anyone off the course service is free for all runners and is part of Adrian Youngman at the three check points because they the DD race experience. missed the cut-off times. Admittedly, the Lead Bikes: Stewart weather was kind to us last year, I will be sending you a final email nearer Dunn, Adam Caunter something you can never really factor in race day. If you haven’t sent us your email while running on Dartmoor! address yet, please do so. We can then (below) also send you your split times after the Demand for marathons and race. Within that final email will be any ultramarathons has seen many races sell last-minute instructions and also a plea to out well in advance of race day. This try to reduce the amount of traffic on the year’s DD was no exception: it sold out course. within 12 days of the entry forms becoming available. The reserve list soon I would like to thank everyone associated followed suit. I had to close it when 50 with the DD, particularly our main names registered a desire to take on our sponsors: Ironbridge Runner, St Austell notorious hills! As we go to print, 14 Brewery, Ashfords Solicitors, the Road people have already managed to secure a Runners Club, South Dartmoor Race Catering: Tina place through the reserve list. If, between Community College, Linhay Projects and now and 25 May you have to withdraw the Ilsington Hotel. Their support is Caunter from the race, at least you have a chance invaluable and allows us to charge an Communications: of getting your money back. Please refer affordable entry fee. If you are staying at to page twenty-six for full details. one of the establishments or entering one John Ludlam of the races that have advertised in The Photography: The event’s popularity means we have Discoverer, please mention the magazine. now outgrown its home on our club’s Julia Proctor, Nigel website. We are currently working on a Let’s keep our fingers crossed for some

PETE ROYLE/ JOHN LUDLAM new website designed specifically for the decent running weather on 1 June. The Penwarden, Milos Erben DD and hope to launch it later in the year. race team is looking forward to meeting Pasta Party & Disco: We will also introduce online entries, to some familiar faces and a few new ones, make the allocation of places fairer and to too. In the meantime, enjoy your training Caroline Hayes improve the event’s sustainability. and – most importantly – stay injury free!

[3] Busy Izzie!

Last year’s lady winner Isobel Wykes reveals how DD success helped get her picked for England.

Izzie strides out at the Rugglestone Inn.

You have a young family. How was Wow! So, how’s the training been going? inspiring people from different running getting back into running? I try to get in two speed sessions a week, clubs in the South West who like to run and I have three kiddies aged from two to maybe on the track or mile/km/ hill reps get muddy. five and started running again about two with a delightful coach, Lesley McClaren weeks after the youngest was born. I say (who is running her debut DD this year). I running — it was more like shuffling, but it like to race or do a long run at the PREVIOUS VICTORS was good to get out again in the fresh air. weekend. The other days, I take my two- Slowly, I built up to running for about an year-old out in the running buggy and we MEN hour and then, within six weeks, I had run for about an hour up and down the 2012 John Ward - Bideford AC 3:33:36 entered and ran my first post-baby race — hills near where we live. I also do some 2011 Dave Tomlin - Teignbridge Trotters 3:57.48 a hilly 10-miler in January 2011. It was great core strength exercises and yoga at 2010 Dave Stone - Exmouth Harriers 3:50:53 to be back. home. 2009 Alan Ryder - Erme Valley Harriers 3:43:43 2008 Brian Cole - Royal Navy AC 3:47:51 What did you make of last year’s DD? What’s up in 2013, besides the DD? 2007 Brian Cole - Royal Navy AC 3:44.58 I absolutely LOVED it. Most definitely a I have a couple of 100-km events in the 2006 Brian Cole - Royal Navy AC 3:49:27 favourite. It was the first ultra I had done for spring, the Hoka Highland Fling in 2005 Brian Cole - Royal Navy AC 3:39:21 eight years and I didn’t really know if I April and the Roseland August Trail 2004 Dave Stone - Exmouth Harriers 3:51:48 would still be able to run that far. I hadn’t Series in August. I’d also like to try to 2003 Mike Feighan - Bideford AC 3:44:45 really trained for it and I had no great keep some speed by doing some shorter 2002 Mike Feighan - Bideford AC 3:36:18 expectations and this made the run even local races, as I did last year. I was really 2000 Shaun Milford - Newquay RR 3:51:55 more enjoyable. I hadn’t studied the route lucky to have no injuries at all in 2012. I 1999 Mike Jacobs - Weston AC 3:58:52 and I didn’t have a race plan. Someone told just hope my luck continues this year. 1998 Brian Davidson - Citadel Harriers 3:56:36 me there was a ‘big’ hill at about 16 miles Can you go even quicker at this year’s and that’s all I knew! The friendly DD? LADIES atmosphere and supportive marshals all I’d really like to beat last year’s time. I 2012 Isobel Wykes - Truro RC 4:07:32 played a key part in making it such a wasn’t far off the course record, so that 2011 Diane Roy - East Cornwall Harriers 4:29:50 brilliant day. might be a good goal to aim for. But, my 2010 Helen Taranowski - West Four Harriers 4:18:46 goodness, it is such a tough race. I think 2009 Emily Gelder - Dulwich Runners 4:39:12 But it was all worthwhile. you have to be pleased just to finish! 2008 Adela Salt - Trentham AC 4:02:36 It was. Because of my DD run last year 2007 Heather Foundling Hawker - Honiton RC 4:07:50 and a subsequent 44-mile race two weeks You’ll be running for the Mud Crew. 2006 Heather Foundling Hawker - Honiton RC 4:05:38 later, I was noticed by selectors for the I will. Although I’m a member of Truro 2005 Heather Foundling Hawker - Honiton RC 4:17:16 100km Anglo Celtic Plate and was asked to Running Club, I also run for Mud Crew 2004 Heather Foundling Hawker - Honiton RC 4:30:00 represent my country. I was absolutely Trail runners as second claim. They are a 2003 Christine Costiff - S.London Harriers 4:41:14 JULIA PROCTOR amazed to have the opportunity to run for unique club because they don’t have a 2002 Carolyn Hunter-Rowe - Horwich RMIH 4:20:12 England (and very worried about letting venue, regular meetings or a structured 2000 Hilary Walker - Serpentine AC 4:53:59 people down). Thankfully, though, I had a training programme. They are the virtual 1999 Hilary Walker - Serpentine AC 4:48:09 good race and judged the pace well to running club of Cornwall. It’s really 1998 Peggy Wiseman - SWRR 5:38:02 finish first for England and second overall. a huge bunch of friendly, supportive,

[4]

Ashfords LLP Proud sponsors of the 2013 Dartmoor Discovery Ashfords LLP Ashford House Grenadier Road T: +44 (0)1392 337000 Exeter EX1 3LH [email protected]

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Plume of Feathers Inn

Joint sponsors with St Austell Proud sponsors of the Brewery of the Dartmoor Discovery

Keith, Sarah and the team welcome you to ‘The Plume’, a traditional, Dartmoor Discovery family-run, country inn. Dating from 1785, The Plume is Princetown’s oldest building and retains many of its original features.

Spacious function room - Sunday Carvery All day opening - Families welcome - Hot & cold bar menu Beer garden with adjoining children’s adventure area ‘With you every step of the way’ B&B single, double and family rooms, all en-suite 38-bed bunkhouses - Campsite at rear From Duchy to Dartmoor... Ideal! Pitches for 10 motor caravans and 75 tents

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[5] Cornish and proud of it!

If you’ve ever attended a race in the South West, you’re bound to have bumped into a merry band of Tamar Trotters. We meet one of the region’s most popular running clubs.

The Tamar Trotters were founded in 1996 six-minute-miling through to 11-minute- new world record for the FV55 category at from a small band of local runners that miling and novices. On Thursday last year’s Taunton Half Marathon, met at Saltash Rugby Club. Turn the clock evenings, they like nothing better than to crossing the line in 1:21:11 — a time that forward 17 years and they are now one of test themselves against the various most of us can only dream about. the largest running clubs in the West stretches of coast path and steep The Tamar Trotters organise the Country. They currently have more than countryside in and around Saltash. They Magnificent Seven road race, which takes 370 members, though that figure can rise even offer a circuit training session on a place in July and is part of the Cornish to over 400 during the year. Friday night! All that for just £20 annual Grand Prix Series. It’s a popular event that membership. Now that’s a bargain. Based in Saltash, just over the Tamar attracts more than 400 runners. Any Bridge, the Trotters see themselves very It’s not all about running, though, with the profits made from the Magnificent Seven much as a Cornish club. ‘Our members Trotters. They have a reputation for being are donated to a different charity each are proud to have Cornwall emblazoned the loudest, craziest bunch in Cornwall. year. on the backs of their running vests,’ You will often hear them being described The club also organises the Saltash declares club captain Alan Williams. ‘But, as a social club with a running problem! Aquathlon in May and it helps out the just to keep our members from Devon Social events come thick and fast organisers of the Saltash Half Marathon. happy, we do venture over the bridge for throughout the year, including a May Ball, training nights during the winter.’ the Midsummer Madness and Turkey Trot As we go to press, it looks like the Tamar (days out in fancy dress visiting various Trotters will have 10 members pitting their

Training nights are a big part of the club. pubs), comedy nights and lots more. wits against the DD. You can bet that CONTRIBUTED The main sessions are held on Tuesday, they’ll receive the loudest support out on Thursday and Friday evenings. Juniors The Trotters don’t just like to party hard: the course and, if they live up to their train on Wednesdays. Members also meet they have some pretty good runners, too. reputation, they will probably be the last for longer runs on Sundays. The club Their star runner has to be Anne Luke, a ones standing on the dance floor at the caters for all abilities, with groups clocking lady vet world record holder! Anne set a post-race disco!

[6] Top Trotters, clockwise, from above: Colin Bunting (161) digs in; teamwork from Peter Hopps (79), Helen Roper (64) and Ian Ross (201); Jason Shipton (134) braves the pain; Alan Williams (110) gives us a wave; and Michael PETE ROYLE/ JULIA PROCTOR Robinson (171) cruises towards 8th place at the 2012 DD.

[7] Midwinter Marathon

Warren D’Rozario tries out the Apeldoorn Marathon and encounters a surprise heatwave...

Warren (inset) enjoyed the atmosphere at Apeldoorn.

The Midwinter Marathon in Apeldoorn is The entry fee was 35 euros with your own smoothly, due to being in their correct one of the oldest marathons in Holland. Champion chip or 39 euros if you were starting groups. The route took in This year’s race, on 3 February, was its renting one. T-shirts were extra. You woodlands and heath, as well as the well- 40th anniversary. Apeldoorn is not far from needed to register in advance online and paved roads of Apeldoorn, Hoog Soeren the German border and is very popular in then do a bank transfer (which can be and Assel. Germany. Most of the previous years it has expensive), or pay cash when picking up been bitterly cold. Last year, temperatures your bib number. Bib collection for Once we reached the wooded area, the hit a low of -15C during the day, with good overseas runners was at the Schouwburg temperature dropped but, by now, most of helpings of snow, and the Dutch train Orpheus theatre on Sunday morning up to us were into our running and didn't seem network came to a standstill. But the race 30 minutes before the 12 noon start. to notice. Feed stations were every 5K and has never been cancelled in all of its 40 were well-stocked with water, tea, fruit and years. The local authorities are geared up There were 12,000 participants registered energy drinks. The Dutch Red Cross was for clearing snow and making routes safe, in attendance and friendly marshals and unlike authorities in some other locations. police officers were on the course. The route consisted of two loops, a first Getting there is pretty straightforward. Our loop of 26.667K and a second of 15.528K. trip started on Saturday morning with a After about three hours of running, it flight from Birmingham to Amsterdam’s started to rain and most people finished in Schiphol Airport. You can book reasonably the wet and cold. At the finish, you were cheap flights from many UK airports. The presented with a nice gong and staff were train network serves Schiphol and we ready with a blanket, fruit and hot drinks. boarded an intercity service direct to Changing and shower facilities were Apeldoorn. The train journey took about 1 nearby. hour 15 minutes. Apeldoorn is a fast course, which you For many years, the event started and for all distances, 800 of these choosing to would expect in Holland. The marathon finished at the Orderbos, near Willem III complete the 42K. The three other time limit was five hours but you only got Barracks. In 2006, it was moved to the distances were a 18.5K, which started at on the results board if you finished in historic Avenue Loolaan, near to the 11.30am, a 27.5K starting with the under 4:45. The male winner clocked Palace ’T Loo, in order to accommodate marathon and an 8K starting at 3pm. On 2:28:29 and the female winner crossed the the increasing number of runners. The race day morning it wasn’t as cold as we line in 2:53:33. Both were from the Czech start-finish area is about a 15-minute walk expected – only a low of -2C and no snow. Republic. The 40th Midwinter Marathon through the town centre from the station. Apeldoorn was having a heatwave! was a successful sporting festival, with a Alternatively, you can take a Number 16 good atmosphere and good organisation CONTRIBUTED/ APELDOORN MARATHON bus to Orpheus. There’s a good selection Lining up at the start, only the runners in a beautiful setting. I’ve completed of hotels and bars in and around the town, from the UK seemed to be in shorts. Were numerous marathons around the world and we booked a hotel which was about a we Brits tough or just mad? The race and I would definitely go back to two-minute walk from the start. started on time and everyone got away Apeldoorn.

[8] Ilsington Country Ashmoor House Hotel NEAR HAYTOR, DARTMOOR

This family-run country house hotel on Dartmoor is bursting Sports with traditional character and friendly service from people ready to make you feel at home. Few Dartmoor hotels in Devon can possess such a perfect setting as this one.

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2 or 3 course dinner available in our restaurant from £30 per person www.ashmoor-sports-centre.co.uk Ilsington Village, Dartmoor, Devon TQ13 9RR Tel: 01364 661452 www.ilsington.co.uk

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Linhay Projects is proud to be supporting the Dartmoor Discovery and the Teignbridge Trotters for this great event. Commando Shuffle Dartmoor 30 Miler Saturday 21st September 2013 Follow the Green Beret route

Good luck to all the DD runners! Okehampton to Moorlands Bridge

[9] Most sane people would be overjoyed if they completed hall of fame just one DD. Not this lot!

14 DDs: Graham BAKER, Mid Essex Casuals 12: Roger HALES, Teignbridge Trotters Bryan KING, Plymouth Musketeers RC 11: Rona BULEY, Eastleigh RC 10: Alan LITTLEJOHNS, Launceston RR 9. Alan MANN, Les Croupiers Dave STONE, Exmouth Harriers Ewan WALTON, Teignbridge Trotters Andrew FOX, Road Runners Club 8: Patricia SEABROOK, Finch Coasters Andrew RICHARDS, Road Runners Club Robert TINNYUNT, Teignbridge Trotters David TOMLIN, Teignbridge Trotters Neil FISHER, Torbay AAC Selina DA SILVA, 100 Marathon Club David BEATTIE, Crawley AC Samuel KILPATRICK, Road Runners Club 7: Richard PEARSON, Southampton RC Richard STAUNTON, Running Forever

Members of the DD Hall of Fame make it look easy during 2012’s event. Clockwise from above: Julie Dalzell (131), Reg Chapman (123), Alan Littlejohns (125), Kevin Day (31) Reg CHAPMAN, Littledown Harriers and Stuart Moulson (43). Rebecca FRYER, Tamar Trotters Liz EASTERBROOK, Hayle Runners Gilbert JOHN, Les Croupiers Warren D'ROZARIO, Sandwell Valley RC Loretta DALEY, Les Croupiers (pictured above) 6: Jim MUNDAY, Sutton Runners Stuart MOULSON, Teignbridge Trotters Chris WRIDE, Teignbridge Trotters Ray MCCURDY, 100 Marathon Club Mike NEWMAN, Lordshill Road Runners Roy BARNES, Road Runners Club Julie DALZELL, Marshall Milton Keynes AC Kevin DAY, Goyt Valley Striders Linda HUXLEY, Bearbrook Joggers Roy GREW, Road Runners Club Mike FEIGHAN, Exeter Harriers Roger HAYES, Teignbridge Trotters

Steve CHARLESTON, Bearbrook Joggers PETE ROYLE/ JULIA PROCTOR/ DAVE COOPER Andrew CROCK, San Domenico RRC Robert ELLIS, Langport Runners Philip DODDS, Littledown Harriers

[10] Roseland August Trail Series 2013 South Cornwall coast path Plague 64m (100k) Black 32m Red 20m White 11m camping, live music, bar 17th August 2013 Entry opens January 2013 Mud Crew Events

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[11] Beating the Beast

Jim Murray travels to Milton Keynes to take on one of marathon running’s greatest challenges.

The Quadzilla is a beast of an event: four going how things can settle down. Day Four. At last, the final day! I knew marathons in four days is a challenge that Running a five-minute negative split was things had to go seriously wrong to lose should not be underestimated. Each encouraging and finishing in 3:08:15 was a my first place overall but Foxy had sowed marathon is run on the same course – great confidence boost. a seed in my already stupid head by seven loops of about 3.5 miles around mentioning that the course record was Caldecotte Lake in Milton Keynes. Day Three. Snowing, windy and freezing within reach. Conditions were an awful mix Amazingly, despite its punishing profile, cold. It was clear that today was not going of minus temperatures, rain and wind – the the race sells out really quickly every year! worst running weather you can imagine.

I arrived at the Quadzilla with a few I started feeling OK, with no major niggling injuries, thinking it’s only going to problems until about halfway. I was there turn life-threatening as the days pass. in 1:35 but realised that, after three Aren’t all runners the same until we hear marathons, I was not going to maintain ‘Go’ or the bang of the gun? this pace. So I made the decision to back off 10-15 seconds per mile, to make sure I Day One. A fine, crisp, icy morning. Race completed the day, keeping one eye on Director David Bailey, known as Foxy, my back when I could find the energy to counts down and we’re off, adrenaline turn my head far enough to see. pumping. I went off like a madman, going through 10M at sub-three-hour pace.I was At this point, I didn’t want to cause feeling easy but the hamstring I feared unnecessary damage. It was great to run would cause me problems was niggling, under the bridge and see the windmill for so I backed off, thinking what have you the 28th and final time. Seven laps around done, you muppet? I finished the day the lake every day was mentally and feeling a little sore, in 3:05:59. physically demanding, but very satisfying, I felt a great sense of achievement My recovery started straight away – a pint crossing the line in 3:13:20. Job done! of milk, coffee and lots of water to get the lactic acid moving as fast as possible. to be much fun. The race started and, for It wasn’t until later that I found out I had Then I was off to the bar for a massive once, I stuck to the 3:15 plan. It was set a new course record, posting a total meal and, of course, banter with fellow unpleasant in these conditions. The time of 12:38:51. It topped off a great lunatics. course had become muddy and slippery in week of running among friends, old and places, so I was just trying my best to stay new. Just being there with so many Day Two. After wishing I hadn’t worn calf upright as I am a clumsy, shuffling runner inspirational fellow runners was a guards and two pairs of compression with no leg lift. It was my most consistent pleasure. Yes, I was first across the line leggings to bed, I awoke with feet day. I was clocking every mile within but that means nothing. Every person who

resembling Thumper, the rabbit from seconds and actually enjoyed the completes the Quadzilla is a winner. All CONTRIBUTED Bambi. My hamstring was still niggling. I experience. By this point, my thighs were athletes who battle through the 104.8 thought Day Two was going to be a starting to resemble Sir Chris Hoy’s but I miles to receive their coveted survivor struggle but it’s surprising once you get managed to scrape home in 3:11:15. hoodie deserve massive respect.

[12] Saturday, 1 June, 2013 DD DOSSIER

YOUR 4- PAGE COMPLETE RACE GUIDE STARTS HERE!

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

[13] Princetown Site Plan

Changing, toilets and Course toilets Cut-off points baggage There are various toilets on the course: The male and female changing areas 9M — New Bridge Car Park; 13M — Due to the nature of Dartmoor and the are at the school, as are the toilets. Ashburton Centre, on left just before likelihood that some of our members will Please be aware these are designed for turning left for Buckland in the Moor; 20M — Widecombe-in-the-Moor car be out on the moor for the best part of the children but are perfectly adequate. park. day, we have imposed a strict race cut-off There are more toilets at the Plume of time of six-and-a-half hours. This equates Feathers and the Fox Tor Cafe. There is a secure baggage area in one of the Animals on the road to an average speed of 12-minute miling. school classrooms. Each bag must be Please be tolerant if you’re held up by There are three cut-off checkpoints (see labelled with your race number (we’ll animals on the road. Most of the route map, opposite). You must reach them in provide a label). You will be able to is through unfenced countryside and the required times to be able to continue collect your bag from the finish area there is nothing the race committee can in the race: 13M (Ashburton) — 2:46; 20M after the race. Don’t forget that you do to stop animals wandering along or (Rugglestone Inn) — 4hrs; Marathon — must produce your race number to mustering on the road. It’s all part of 5:15. retrieve your bag. the allure of the DD, so take a chill pill if things suddenly get a little more rural If you miss any of the cut-off times, we’ll Start than you’re used to! Please use the politely ask you to withdraw from the race. gates to the side of cattle grids. Don’t The race starts at 9.30am, in the centre Transport will be provided to the finish. try to dance across the rails: you’ll be of Princetown, by the mini-roundabout. risking serious injury. Obviously, we can’t physically remove you Please assemble 10 minutes before the from the race, but we hope you’ll adhere start (we’ll give you plenty of warning), to our request in order to safeguard the between the Plume of Feathers and the MP3 players future of the event. If you do choose to Old Railway Inn, not on the main road, Due to the narrowness of many of the continue, please note that all marshals, as this will still be open to traffic. The lanes on the course, the wearing of NICK STEVENS signage, feeding stations and medical Race Director will deliver a short safety MP3 players or similar devices is strictly forbidden. Please be sensible cover will have been withdrawn from the briefing before getting you started with and adhere to this. We don’t want to course. a loud bang and a flurry of confetti. (It’s his trademark!) disqualify you if 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 Timekeepers log everyone’s finishing time up to the 6:30 cut-off. All finishers get a unique medal. Runners’ requirements differ on finishing an ultra, so our catering team offer everything from a 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, a possibility, even in June. If you don’t fancy anything when you cross the line, please feel free to return for something later. Showers Shower facilities are limited to four units (two male and two female), at the Plume of Ashburton is a busy town with narrow streets, where excess traffic could Feathers Inn. Please don’t linger too long in be dangerous. Supporters’ vehicles must avoid Ashburton by taking the the showers if there are runners waiting. If diversion shown above. Follow the race route as normal for 11.3 miles, you are staying in the Fox Tor Cafe, please until you reach Lent Hill Junction, which is half a mile past Holne Bridge. use their showers, to free up the ones at There is a marshal at Lent Hill, instructing runners to keep straight on for the Plume of Feathers. Ashburton. At Lent Hill, turn left and proceed straight on past Adams Hele until you reach Hele Cross, just half a mile from the Lent Hill Cyclists turning. Turn left and, after a quarter of a mile, meet the Buckland road Traffic problems are a real issue for the DD at Water Turn. Turn left and follow the race route. Please be careful when and cyclists accompanying runners add to you reach the main Buckland road, because there will be runners on it, congestion. In the interests of safety and heading towards Buckland in the Moor. the environment, we ask you to confine your support to the roadside.

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 need to take. There will be marshals NICK STEVENS stationed at Stone Cross, Church Lane Head and Eastern Lane junctions to assist.

[16] [17] We are the ton-up club!

The 100 Marathon Club’s members have thousands of 26-milers under their belts. How do they do it? The Discoverer meets club Chairman Roger Biggs, for the inside story on a unique organisation.

Ultra runners and marathoners across the members,’ Roger reports. A wannabe member can be accepted. The idea has country stand in awe of the 100 Marathon member is someone who has completed caught on abroad and runners in other Club, whose members seem to do the 50 or more marathons. Forty-two of the countries have set up similar bodies. But undoable — again and again. So, where full members are ladies. the standards do not match those of the did it all start? The club’s origins go back UK 100 Marathon Club, Roger declares. to the 1980s. ‘In those days, it was more ‘The Germans, Japanese and Americans of a casual gathering than the formal are the worst in terms of qualifying event organisation we know today,’ explains standards,’ he says. ‘An American club Chairman Roger Biggs (pictured, completed 157 “marathons” last year — right, during the 2010 DD, number 71). ‘It and a German man has run a total of awarded medals for those reaching the 2000!’ 100-marathon milestone but the body For an event to qualify as a bona fide didn’t operate the strict set of rules and marathon in the eyes of the 100 Marathon criteria that are in place now.’ Club, it must have ten or more entrants, hold an official permit or have proper In fact, it wasn’t until after the 2004 Luton insurance. By contrast, in Germany, an Marathon that members re-constituted the individual can measure a route, jog round club and affiliated it to relevant governing it every day and it will count towards their bodies. At that meeting, Roger became total. ‘It’s not that you doubt they have run chairman, a position he has held ever the distance each time,’ Roger explains. since. The boom in marathon and ultra- ‘But you do have to ask yourself whether distance running (an ultra is defined as a these runs were really events. I suspect distance of more than 27 miles) has seen A runner hoping to join must submit a list that we now have the highest standards in the club grow rapidly over the past of marathons, stating where and when the world!’ decade. ‘Last year, a record 30 new they were run and, if possible, the time in CONTRIBUTED members completed their 100th which they were completed. The club Unlike most running groups, 100 marathon. This brought the total to 277 scrutinises the list and highlights any Marathon Club members come from all full members, with a further 52 “wannabe” discrepancies before the prospective over the UK. As a result, social gatherings

[18] Once you reach the age of 70, membership is free!

are tricky but, in recent years, members have combined marathons and sightseeing in several European cities. Members also try to meet at cult marathons on the circuit, such as Snowdonia, Beachy Head and, more recently, Portsmouth. But the one marathon that really brings them all out is the Fairland’s Valley Challenge in Stevenage, probably because Roger was the race director for 13 years.

The club has organised three special road marathons, the most recent being the Woolwich Foot Tunnel (see main picture, above). It also stages a handicap marathon for members, which is always well supported. In addition, the club advises many marathon race directors.

Membership fees are only £10 per year or £40 for five years. Once you reach the age of 70, membership is free! Oh yes, members are 100 Marathon Club stalwarts fly the flag still running marathons in their seventies. In fact, the oldest member at the Fox 40 (above right). The club’s is American Don Taylor, who’s 83! Robin Wilson, 78, is the oldest oldest UK member is Robin Wilson UK member: he’s still running marathons. (above). Simon Illingworth (below) has been awarded an MBE for his charity work. Brian Mills, easily recognised by his dozens of butterfly tattoos, is the club’s ‘top man’, with more than 800 marathons to his name. Gina Little, on 450 marathons, is the leading lady. At 67, she’s also one of the oldest females. Look out for Gina at the 2013 DD. Her number is 199. Roger Biggs (200) is also running this year’s event.

The ‘Godfather’, Steve Edwards, recently set a new world record for running 500 marathons in an average time of 3:15:12. Linda and Dave Major are thought to be the most prolific marathon-running couple in the world, having completed more than 850 marathons between them.

Other notable members include Simon Illingworth, who was awarded the MBE for his charity work. Simon overcame cancer and is still running strong today. Martin Bush is known for a routine involving a few beers the night before a marathon. Rush Yadave had the club’s best-ever ‘100’ celebration. Roger remembers it clearly, even the parking ticket he got!

The future looks bright for the 100 Marathon Club. One 2013 highlight is a December trip to Pisa, where 72-year-old member Danny Kay hopes to run his 500th marathon. Meanwhile, a steady flow of new members swells the ranks. Among this year’s

CONTRIBUTED prospective members are Teignbridge Trotters Roger ‘Smokes’ Hales and Roger ‘Chairman’ Hayes, along with Alan Mann, of Les Croupiers. If all goes well, the DD will be their 100th marathon, so give them a shout if you see them out on the course!

[19] Like Father, Like Son, Like Grandson

Vic Tarrant (left) with Vic Senior and Julian.

Ultra running legend John Tarrant is honoured by the DD with a trophy named after him. His son and grandson are following in his footsteps. Julian Head reports on a remarkable running family.

At the 2012 Dartmoor Discovery award of the Dartmoor Discovery magazine, When Vic runs on 1 June, he will be presentations, the Teignbridge Trotters which then led to the presentation of a following a family trait of ultramarathon were delighted that the John Tarrant MV40 trophy in his memory. Now that the feats. His father, John, and uncle (also Vic) Category Trophy was presented by Vic Trotters have taken over the organisation were notable marathon and ultra distance Tarrant, the son of the late John Tarrant, a of the race, I feel honoured that the club runners in the 1960s. legendary ultra distance runner who had have continued to present an MV40 trophy to battle the authorities in order to pursue in his memory. Also, the organisation was John suffered the injustice of being the sport he loved. excellent – pre-race, during and after.’ banned from running in organised races because the fact that he had once earned Taking part in the DD captured Vic’s Vic lives and trains in Lincolnshire, a a paltry £17 from boxing disqualified him imagination and we are thrilled to relatively flat area of the country and hill in a strictly amateur age. The tale of the announce that he has once again entered training involves a long drive to the brothers’ fight against authority and their this year’s event. So keen was Vic to run adventures as John ran in various events, that his entry form was posted as soon as numberless, are chronicled in Bill Jones the entries opened in September. gripping biography The Ghost Runner – The Tragedy of the Man They Couldn’t Although he was disappointed that last Stop. year’s race ended prematurely at 22 miles, there was enough in the hilly course to The book, soon to be published in the entice Vic back. He confesses that despite United States, has attracted interest from studying all of the race literature on offer script writers. It also garnered Bill Jones a from the Trotters website and also the best new sports writer of 2012 award and detailed course profiles, ‘nothing prepares a shortlisting for sports book of the year, you for the real thing.’ He adds: ‘While I with prominent placings on the shelves of definitely did not run to my capability, the Waterstones. course is the toughest race I have competed in, and my main reason for In Hereford, where the Tarrants settled returning for another crack is to finish, and through John’s work with the TA, and expunge the DNF of last year!’ where a road named John Tarrant Close bears testament to how well regarded he Vic also pointed to the organisation and was in that area, a statue campaign his family’s ties with the race over a gathers pace. Check out the campaign’s number of years, as another instrumental Facebook page and register your support factor in his return. ‘I wanted to show – a search for ‘John Tarrant statue’ will CONTRIBUTED support for the race. If I had finished last Lincolnshire Wolds. He is looking forward take you there. Vic Snr is still a well year, I’m sure I would still be returning to the lighter evenings, when he will be regarded coach in the Hereford area and anyway. The founder of the race, Phil making good use of this area, observing members of his training squad have been Hampton, was kind enough to publish an that there is only so far that a treadmill can instrumental in the statue campaign. article about my father in an earlier edition take you.

[20] You’re running up it with your chin on the tarmac. Perfect preparation!

When he visits his mother in Hereford, Vic ‘you are running up it Jnr will be making good use of the local with your chin on the terrain and following in the footsteps of his tarmac. Perfect illustrious father who used the steep hills preparation!’ there to build his strength. John Jnr, having acted ‘Old Eign Hill’ is particularly notorious. as a second to his dad Here, John and Vic Snr would bang out previously, is aware of 220 reps up a 1 in 3 incline. There was a the DD course profile bench more or less parallel to where the and the changeable furlong (around 200m) interval ended and, Dartmoor weather. As one day, they attracted the attention of a preparation, he has pensioner who was seated, intently scheduled an April watching the brothers as they belted up marathon. He works for and down. After a few intervals, the an airline as a member spectator chirpily advised them to, ‘Keep of the cabin crew and trying lads, I’m sure you’ll make it to the confesses that ‘it can be top eventually!’ Vic will be keeping this a little annoying trying to story fresh in his mind as he tackles keep to a structured everything that Dartmoor throws at him. training programme at times. Particularly if I am The Discoverer can also officially scheduled to do a long announce that Vic’s son, John (pictured, run which ends up right), has gained a DD place and will be coinciding with a long tackling the 32-mile course with his father. haul flight.’ He’s hoping John, 24, is a useful middle distance any training programme runner and will be taking on an ultra for tweaks won’t have a the first time. detrimental effect on the race plan. John is currently concentrating on building up his mileage. ‘I particularly need to work We asked the Tarrants on my stamina with significant distance what John Snr would training,’ he told us. A route in the have thought of the DD. The records on a regular basis. We have Lincolnshire Wolds affords him some response was unequivocal ‘When my absolutely no doubt that, if the Dartmoor occasional hill training. Known as the father moved up from the marathon to Discovery race had been on the calendar Croxby Crawl, it’s a measured 4.44-mile ultras in the mid-1960s, he ran in every in the mid 1960s, he would have been circuit, regularly used by Vic’s club, the ultra distance race that was available in lining up. Wolds Veterans. Toward the end of the the UK,’ says Vic. ‘At one time or another, route is a 300m, 1 in 3 climb, during which he won all of them and broke course He would have loved the course and its hills and, based on the times he was achieving back then (his course record for the 1967 Exeter to Plymouth 44-miler was a tad outside 6.30-mile pace), there is no doubt that he would have achieved a very creditable DD time.’

Although grandson John has no marathon experience, we are confident that he will be aiming to fulfil a family legacy of ultra running stretching back three generations. We wish both Vic and John the best of luck as they prepare to CONTRIBUTED tackle the Dartmoor Discovery in their different ways.

[21] Pasta party!

Running the DD isn’t just about the email [email protected]. You pain of all those hills. There’s got to pay us on the night. The last date be a bit of fun and some serious you can reserve a place is Tuesday grub, too. So check out our Friday 28 May. Buon appetito! evening Pasta Party at Race HQ.

This popular event is a great way for experienced hands to catch up with old DD colleagues or an Menu ideal opportunity for newbies to Spaghetti Bolognese pick up top tips. The DD Pasta Smoked Bacon & Party is at the Plume of Feathers, on Friday, 31 May, from Leek Linguine 6.30pm-8.30pm. Priced at a Spinach & mere £6 for all you can eat, it’s a Mushroom Tagliatelle great value way to kick off your Selection of Salads weekend. Peruse the menu on Garlic Bread your right for a sample of the tasty dishes on offer. Jacket Potatoes You need to book in advance All for £6! through the Race Director, Roger Hayes, on 01626 773562, or Party on down!

‘A disco? After an ultramarathon?’ we hear you ask, a faint quaver in your voice. Oh, yes, you’d better believe it, baby! Did you know there are top DD runners out there who swear the only reason they put themselves through 32 miles of torture is so that they can strut their stuff on the dance floor afterwards?

The Dartmoor Discovery disco is legend. You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the exquisite ecstasy of working off your shin splints to Sister Sledge. If you hear a fellow reveller bellow ‘Aceeeeed!’ fear not: you haven’t stumbled into that den of iniquity, The Ministry of Sound. Instead, your new best friend is merely relieved to have flushed away an accumulation of lactic acid.

The DJ spins the first kickin’ tune around 7.30pm at Race HQ. The fun keeps on pumping until midnight. The event is free for all runners, supporters and marshals.

Groovy, baby!

[22] First-timer

For Yeovil Town runner Anita Rufus, doing the DD is all about a very special hat...

an event that was on the road, that took period. And then there’s the Super Slam place in the autumn — and that was flat! Hat, for which you must complete all of So, Amsterdam 2011 it was! I had a great the above, plus an ultramarathon. So girls’ weekend away, although I was the that’s why I’ve entered an ultra — to get a only one running the full distance. The hat! I chose the DD because it was the others did the half. I remember trying to shortest ultra I could find (32 miles is long get across the tramlines the day after the enough for me) and I love Dartmoor, marathon. I was playing chicken with the although I’m more used to letterboxing on trams! My painful quads and legs were the tors than running around it! refusing to do what I was asking them to do. My second marathon (yes, I thought How’s the training been going – plenty How did you get into running? I’d do it again for some mad reason) was of hill work? I started running in 2008, when one of my the 2012 North Dorset Villages Marathon. Hills? What hills? I thought the DD was friends suggested we take part in a 5K This was much more local and contained a flat! Although I live in Somerset, I can’t Race for Life. It seemed a good idea at the few cheeky hills to sap my will to live. After leave my house without going up or down time. We had a generous three months to that, I said never again. I really must see a a hill. However, I have thought that I ought prepare. The day of the race was the first professional about my memory, because to do some hill reps, just to put that idea occasion I managed to run 5K without I’ve entered it again this year! into action. I plan to walk the hills if they stopping and walking. At the end of the get too steep. I’m not proud! It’ll give me a race my friend turned to me and said, So, why an ultra — and why the DD? chance to eat and admire the views. ‘Look, they do a 10K run. We could do The look on people’s faces when I say I’ve that!’ So, my friend takes the blame — or entered an ultra is priceless — their eyes Will you be staying to strut your stuff at credit — for my decision to get into widen and their jaws drop. Believe it or the post-race disco? running. not, I’ve actually entered the DD for a club If I can still stand up, I’ll be there. It may hat. My club, Yeovil Town Road Running be more of a hobble than a strut, though. You soon progressed from that 5K up to Club, awards annual ‘Slam Hats’. I’ve the marathon! earned two Grand Slam Hats, in 2011 and At least you won’t have to worry about Once I had run a few half marathons, I 2012. To gain a Grand Slam Hat, you have those trams! Anita will be wearing thought that I might as well go the whole to have completed a 5K, 10K, 10M, half number 219, so give her a shout if you hog and do the full version. I had to find marathon and marathon within a given spot her on the course!

MEN PREVIOUS DD WINNING TEAMS LADIES 2012 Teignbridge Trotters 2012 Teignbridge Trotters 2011 100 Marathon Club 2011 Marshall Milton Keynes AC 2010 Teignbridge Trotters 2010 Teignbridge Trotters 2009 Teignbridge Trotters 2009 Bearbrook Joggers 2008 Royal Navy AC 2008 Somer AC 2007 Royal Navy AC 2007 Somer AC 2006 Road Runners Club 2006 Somer AC 2005 Crawley AC 2005 Somer AC 2004 Teignbridge Trotters 2004 Avon Valley Runners 2003 Road Runners Club 2003 Women’s Running Network 2002 Southampton AC 2002 n/a

CONTRIBUTED/ PETE ROYLE 2000 Tipton Harriers 2000 n/a 1999 Tipton Harriers 1999 n/a 1998 CDO ORD SQN (Army) Winning team member Garry Smart at the 2012 DD. 1998 n/a

[23] DD record holders

CATEGORY NAME CLUB TIME YEAR

Male Course Record John Ward Bideford AC 3.33.36 2012

MV40 John Ward Bideford AC 3.33.36 2012

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]

[25] Number swaps

The DD is becoming more and more popular. Our number swap system helps ensure that all available slots are filled on race day.

Our number swap system is proving a hit 1. Check www.teignbridgetrotters.co.uk forget the £3 cheque: it covers the cost of with DD entrants. Last year, 21 people for the list of contact details of runners a new magazine. were able to bag a spot on the DD starting hoping to secure a race number. line as a result of using the scheme. It’s a 4. Once the Race Director receives the great way of saving money if you’re unable 2. Contact the person at the top of the list. transfer form and £3 cheque, he will to participate in the event because of Get them to download the transfer form remove the new entrant from the top of injury or some other unavoidable problem. (also on our website). Once they’ve filled it the waiting list and inform them that they The system also ensures that valuable DD in and signed it, they need to forward it to have been successful. places don’t go to waste. you, along with a £3 cheque made payable to the Teignbridge Trotters and a If you wish to pass on your number and This year, demand for the scheme was cheque made payable to yourself for you have a clubmate or friend who you unprecedented and we closed it when the whatever sum you have agreed. know wants to run, then you are at liberty number of names on the reserve list to approach them directly and follow the reached 50. So far, 14 people have already 3. You then need to fill in your section of same procedure as above. The last date used it to obtain 2013 DD race numbers. the same transfer form and return it to: for receiving any transfer forms will be Dartmoor Discovery, 69 Teignmouth Road, Saturday, 25 May. The Race Director will Here’s what to do if you have to drop out. Teignmouth, Devon, TQ14 8UR. Don’t have the final say over all number swaps.

Glittering prizes

Not everyone can secure the top spots like 2011 overall winner Prize list Dave Tomlin and second-placed lady Ellie Sutcliffe (pictured). But All winners receive a gorgeous, engraved crystal glass trophy! check out the prize list (left) and you’ll see there’s plenty of great 1st M&F £60 IBR voucher stuff on offer. 2nd M&F £30 IBR voucher 3rd M&F £25 IBR voucher So why not tilt at a DD windmill? 4th M&F £20 IBR voucher You’ll never uncover your inner 5th M £15 IBR voucher alpha male or female if you don’t 6th M £15 IBR voucher push yourself! 7th M £15 IBR voucher 1st FV35, 40, 45, 50, 55 £15 IBR voucher Top prizes include some juicy 1st MV40, 45, 50, 55, 60 £15 IBR voucher Ironbridge Runner gift vouchers 2nd FV35, 40, 45, 50, 55 trophy only for high placings and category 2nd MV40, 45, 50, 55, 60 trophy only winners. There’s hard cash for 1st M & F newcomer £15 IBR voucher record-breakers. And all winners 1st, 2nd, 3rd Male Teams (3 to count) trophy only bag a rather gorgeous, engraved 1st, 2nd, Female Teams (3 to count) trophy only crystal glass trophy. £100 cash for M & F course record! Now you know what’s on offer, DAVE COOPER/ PETE ROYLE £25 cash for MV & FV records! there’s no excuse for slacking on those hills. Good luck!

[26] The Dark Place

Ewan Walton probes what lies beyond 26.2 miles, where maths will not help you...

There’s no doubt about it. Whether you’re run a marathon in six hours, you’re a hero. point and checking our watch for that vital a relative beginner or a battle-hardened If you tell him you’ve just run a 10K in 29 stat. It happens and the time is pleasing. elder statesman or woman of the tarmac, minutes, he’ll stare at you blankly, clearly For a few seconds, we feel light and the marathon is a towering monument of requiring a translator. bouncy as we stride into the unknown: this personal achievement. ultra lark isn’t so bad. But the trap is ‘But,’ I hear some of you cry. ‘The sprung. 26.2 plus six. Our simple Like one of Dartmoor’s legendary granite Dartmoor Discovery is a shade over 32 mathematical assessment is our downfall. menhirs, the marathon rises above the miles and you’re waffling on about its weathered grasslands of the merely shorter cousin, the marathon. The DD is a In passing the marathon mark we have average and stands proudly against the marathon plus six miles!’ Is it, now? Fast prematurely dipped our toes in the warm grey skies of day-to-day existence. Even forward to race day. The air crackles; it’s waters of the finishing area; in short, we non-runners will give it the time of day, in alive with expectation, excitement, fear, have dropped our guard and we are contrast to their indifference towards other the smell of deep heat (can you still get floundering. And so it comes to pass; the distances. If you tell Joe Public you’ve just deep heat?) gate comes down, the noises cease, the colours fade. This is the Dark Place, an Some know what’s coming, returning year athletic end-of-the-pier freak circus of our after year to try to tame the beast. In the own making. The demons rouse from their other camp, is the growing number of slumber and busy themselves in our ailing those who face the task for the first time. minds, prompting bizarre, uncharacteristic Race diary Indeed, it is from this pool of adventurers behaviours. All because we have the that we may find those who will discover audacity to allow ourselves to think we’ve that, despite the mathematical correctness The DD is not the only nearly finished. of 26.2 plus six equals 32.2 and therefore Teignbridge Trotters equals job done, the reality does not Geographically, the Dark Place lies race. We’ve been reflect the maths. This came as a between Postbridge (drink station 9) and organising events for disappointment to me first time round, as the finish line. It’s where the odd things more than a quarter of numbers are usually so reliable, friendly happen. It’s cold. You start to speak in a a century. Here’s a even… new language that is an intriguing blend of list of our 2013 races. farmyard noises and crying. You may So the gun goes off, the flag drops, develop cravings for cheeseburgers and maroon-blown confetti bundles into the crisps. Grass verges start to look very morning sky. You take your first tentative Westward League Cross comfortable indeed. Country, Bovey Tracey: steps out of Princetown. Note the Sunday, 10 February Tavistock Inn on your right at Poundsgate. Running as we know it ceases, morphing Dewer himself popped in for a pint on 21 into a never-before-seen form of ‘forward Dartmoor Discovery: October, 1638, en route to Widecombe, to motion at all costs’ (I recall perfecting a Saturday, 1 June claim the soul of misguided local lad Jan crab-like sideways lurch while enduring Reynolds who was snoozing, against the cramp). On buckled legs, you may suffer Haytor Heller: Saturday, 20 July terms of the deal, in the ‘Cathedral of the the indignity of a calamitous roadside Totnes 10K: Sunday, 4 August Moor’ on a Sunday morning after a night defecation (I didn’t). Or there’s good old- ‘on it’. If you’re having a spectacularly bad fashioned walking if you don’t want to Newton Abbot Ladies’ 10K: run, the pub may have opened by the time make a spectacle of yourself. you pass. Sunday, 15 September Beyond the safety of 26.2 miles lies a JULIA PROCTOR Templer Ten: Sunday, 3 Returning to the solace of our beloved strange, dark place. It is not just another November numbers; we’re feeling pretty good all six miles. Don’t be fooled by numbers. things considered, relishing the prospect You’re not done until the nice people in of trotting gleefully through the marathon blue hand you a cup of tea.

[27] A rather important date for your diary! The next Dartmoor Discovery: Saturday, 7 June, 2014 Entry forms available on 1 September, 2013

South Dartmoor Community College

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