SOME 709 competitors took to the start line on Sunday for the Newquay 10k – one of the most popular road races of the season, the second of the Cornwall Glass Grand Prix series.

Winning the race, just 16 seconds short of the course record, was Sam Goodchild of Cornwall AC in a fantastic time of 31:55.

Not far behind was Ollie Thorogood (SWRR), who took second, with Cornwall AC youngster Zak Clemens third and Peter Le Grice fourth.

Tamar Trottes’ Rebecca Ezra-Ham was first woman home in 36:25 minutes, with Truro’s Anna Harrold second (37.23) and Cornwall AC’s masters star Emma Stepto third in 38.25.

Impressively 10 men went under 34 minutes and eight woman went under 40 minutes.

Newquay members attended in their droves to support their own club’s event, not only to run, but to support with volunteering, marshalling, and the cheering on of their fellow club runners who were racing.

Representing the club and 15th overall and first back for NRR was Jamie Edwards (2nd in age category) in an impressive 34:50 securing a two minute-plus PB, and Stella Gardener first back for the ladies in a great time of 43:54 minutes.

Newquay Road Runners
Newquay Road Runners (Newquay Road Runners )

Weather conditions were perfect, with the sun shining and hardly a breath of wind.

With an earlier start time than previous years, the race commenced from Newquay Sports Centre at 9am; taking runners on a fast downhill start towards Newquay’s boating lake, along Trevemper road, before climbing up through Trevemper Hamlet and upwards towards the village of Crantock, before looping around past Trevella campsite and returning home to finish back at the sports centre.

With 706 finishers, and many securing personal bests on this fast course, there is little doubt as to the attraction of this race.

Mention must also go to race director Sara Needham who, along with many others in the club, strived to ensure a well organised, well marshalled and welcoming event took place.

The women’s team of Stella Gardener, Eve Hearle, Harriet Frost, Leigh Spencer, Michelle Hague and Sophie Talling finished third.

 Special mention to Alan Edwards (Jamie Edwards’ dad) who ran in his first ever 10k race in a great time of 52:42, unaffiliated, he has now signed up to Newquay RR.

Full results can be found HERE.