AVR runners shine at Martock 10k race in Somerset

The race began under clear skies and saw competitors navigate a series of quiet Somerset country roads.

This marked the 18th edition of the Martock 10k, an event celebrated for its rapid, flat route.

Hewer claimed eighth place overall, coming second in the M40 category with a commendable finish time of 37.37.

This was achieved despite a slight niggle he felt earlier in the week.

Frost was close on his heels, securing 10th place overall with a finish time of 37.50.

The AVRs continued their strong performance in the race - David Cull crossed the line in 38.17, making him the third M40 finisher.

Senior participant Ron Seward made AVR proud by winning the M70 category.

He completed the course in an impressive 48.24, firmly placing him 135th overall.

Other notable AVR members, Alan Morbey and Lee Brooker completed the race in 52.32 and 53.38, respectively, finishing in the 181st and 192nd positions out of a total of 455 runners.

Giants Head half – and a bit!

Meanwhile, other AVRs embarked on the challenging Giants Head half marathon in Dorset on the same day.

This race, slightly longer than a conventional half marathon at 13.6 miles, and with a gruelling 1,500 feet of climb, offered the runners a selection of beautiful views along its picturesque course.

AVRs' Kerry Board, despite struggling with illness, was the fourth woman to finish the race in 2:02:0, also taking first position in the F45 category.

Army success

Last Wednesday, Debbie Whiston ran for the Army at the Inter Services 10km at Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham.

She finished 95th overall and third in the F35 category.

Yeovilton 5k summer series.

The Yeovilton 5k summer series (Image: Carol Austin)

In the third event of the Yeovilton 5k series, the first AVR to cross the finish line was Rich Hardy.

Clocking in at 16:54, Hardy secured 15th place and topped the M40 category.

Other AVR participators had commendable finishes: David Cull at 34th place, Adrian Strawbridge at 66th, James Ashforth at 79th, and Fiona Seward at 143rd.

The next event takes place on Wednesday, 10 July.

Seaton parkrun and beyond.

Matt Waters walked the 5k including the pebbles sections, his longest walk since losing his legs to sepsis in November 2022 (Image: Carol Austin)

Perhaps one of the most spectacular events of the recent races was at Seaton Parkrun.

Among the outstanding performers, the day belonged to Matt Waters.

Despite losing his legs to sepsis in November 2022, Waters managed to walk the entire 5k distance, a commendable feat that drew applause from friends, family and the parkrun community.

The valiant efforts and sportsmanship demonstrated by all the AVRs have illustrated the Club's determination to succeed and the harmonious spirit in which they compete.

With their eye firmly on their next event on Wednesday, July 10, the AVRs are continuing to make their mark.