THE Five Tors event, the inaugural race of the Cornish Multi-Terrain Grand Prix calendar took place last weekend.

Although previous years have seen low turnouts of a little more than 100 runners, this year the mild sunny weather and interest in the new Grand Prix – a series of ten offroad races open to all runners across the country – ensured a bumper turnout of more than 200 athletes.

The race – which is organised by East Cornwall Harriers and marshaled by volunteers from the club and enthusiastic locals – starts from Minions and takes in Sharp Tor, Bearah Tor, Kilmar Tor, the Cheesewring and Tregarrick Tor.

It then descends to Siblyback reservoir, before starting a slow ascent back to Minions via the muddy marshlands around Great Gimble.

Being April 1, some 'jokers' had decided to move several course markers on Tregarrick Tor to confuse runners, but marshals were able to rectify the problem and ensure that the event was a success.

Among the field were 13 runners from the host club, East Cornwall Harriers.

It was the first time that the Harriers' star runner, 18-year-old Dan Nash, was able to run the race – and he certainly didn't disappoint, winning the race in a staggering time of 1.07.28.

In fact, Dan was nearly five minutes faster than last year's winning time, and almost two minutes faster than second place this time around.

He also picked up the Nick Stone Trophy for being the best local runner, while Emily Young took the Bill Muller Memorial Trophy as the best local female.

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