ON TUESDAY, September 11, a new group of keen running beginners began their journey with Launceston Road Runners (LRR) to go from 0-5km over ten weeks.

The club coaches wrote a tailored programme, building up their mileage and time running from an initial walk/run at the beginning, to a continuous run. The runners were led by qualified leader Gill Aze-Thomas and assisted by many club members lending their support. 

Twenty-one runners started the programme with a fantastic range of ages and abilities, and before even completing the programme runners have been signing up for half marathons and even a full marathon next spring!

The end of the ten-week programme on Saturday, November 17 coincided with the monthly Tavy 5kool run; organised by Tavistock Athletics Club, the 5km course starts at the college running track, heading over to Meadowlands Park before finishing back on the track. 

A total of 19 runners ran from the club, a mixture of our new runners and existing members out to support. 

LRR’s Ed Horn came first overall with a time of 17 minutes and 53 seconds, and Kevin Marshall and Martin Hynes both beat existing club records for the 5km distance in their age group. 

A club spokesperson said: “All our new runners completed the 5km in brilliant times and Launceston Road Runners would like to say a huge congratulations and well done to all who took part in the programme and we look forward to running with you in the future!”