East Cornwall Harriers enjoyed their excesses over the festive season and relaxed their training but compensated by completing some seasonal runs and races. The traditional informal Boxing Day race around the beautiful Burrator Reservoir (almost four miles) attracted many local runners, some Father Christmases and others sporting fancy dress, dogs and the odd baby jogger although the pace was fairly serious at the front. The heavy rain held off for the race but ensured that the roads were streaming and the dam was gushing spectacularly.

Those managing to surface on New Year's Day enjoyed a warm gloriously sunny run from Jamaica Inn at Bolventor to the top of Brown Willy (6-7 miles) to make a change from the usual extremely cold and wet conditions experienced previous years. This year the run was more informal but it is hoped to re-establish the traditional race once an organiser comes forward.

More serious runners wanting to test their year 2000 fitness opted for The First Chance 10K at Exeter (the Last Chance 10K takes place at the end of December 2000). Daniel Hyde of Torbay won the flat two lap race around the canal basin in 32 mins 17 secs staying ahead of Erme Valley's Allister Bristow (32:40). East Cornwall Harriers only fielded four runners, but still managed to win two age group categories with Rod Andrews showing a return to racing fitness with a fine 38:31 to take the male over 60yr. prize. Amanda Erith who had a successful season last year showed that she intends to repeat her dominance of the over 45yr ladies by taking that group prize in 45:45. Husband Mike was third male 50yr+ in 37:58 and Bill Muller, fresh (or tired) from The Brown Willy the previous morning still managed a respectable 42:40. Prospective club members Ron Paine (SW Vets) recovering from a millennium bug recorded 44 mins and wife Doreen 53:56.

January is a quiet month for local races except the county cross-country championships at Redruth on 9th January with The Wadebridge 7 opening The Cornwall Grand Prix Series on February 6th. Those mad enough to enjoy 14.6 miles of hills and mud may opt for the Luppitt Lollop on 30th January.

East Cornwall Harriers have been very successful this year in gaining many places in The London Marathon and regular training is now under-way every Tuesday and Thursday meeting at Lux Park Leisure Centre Liskeard 6.30pm, with a longer run organised at weekends. New members are welcome.

A jogging group has now started from Lux Park for beginners or the less fit, walking/jogging 2-3 miles meeting Tuesday and Thursday 6.30pm. Enquiries - MIke Erith (01752) 851480 or (01503) 230358.