The Great West Run 2000 half marathon took place on Sunday 30th April. The race was described as undulating, fast and flat, taking runners from the Exeter Arena on a two lap course through the city and suburban roads of Exeter.
Many of the 1947 competitors taking part had completed the London Marathon only two weeks previously, and found the going, under the hot spring sunshine, neither fast not flat. But the good weather did bring out the crowds to encourage the runners along the course.
The overall winner of the event was Erick Kiplagat of Northbrook AC, in a time of 1:07:47. The first female back was Vicky Pincombe from Minehead RC in 1:20:43. East Cornwall Harriers had four runners taking part, three of whom were still recovering from the London Marathon. Rod Andrews was the first ECH back and finished in a time of 1:27:02. He was 69th overall and won the O60 prize.
Jacky Tyler took the fifth prize in the ladies' race, finishing in 1:29:23, and was second in the O40 category.
Rob Pick finished in a time of 1:33:56, just ahead of fellow club-mate Len White, who finished in 1:34:42. Both found the going tough having not only recently completed the London Marathon, but two weeks previous to that took on the Grizzly Challenge.
Debbie Dunleavy (NqRR) found the heat too much and finished 16th in the ladies' race, in a time of 1:38:16.
Don't forget the next race in the local Cornish Grand Prix Series is the Newquay Playgroup 10. Taking place on the 14th May with a start of 10.30 am, the event is held at Hendra Tourist Park, Hendra Rd., Newquay. The organiser is Mrs J Sargent.