RACHEL and Matt Steele represented Teignbridge Trotters as they took on the Outer Edge Race the Tide Ultra on Saturday, May 16.

This long marathon event takes in the stunning surroundings of the Flete Estate at Mothecombe, offering runners a challenging and scenic test along the South Devon coast. With three distances available, the highlight event was the long marathon route, stretching to almost 29 miles and widely regarded as a “baby ultra” due to its demanding profile.

The course is anything but straightforward, featuring around 4,600 feet of elevation across a varied mix of terrain. Runners tackled woodland trails, open farmland, sections of the South West Coast Path, and repeated climbs and descents over steep coastal hills. The route also included iconic sections such as the crossing to Burgh Island, stretches along Bigbury‑on‑Sea, and the memorable estuary crossing at Wonwell beach – where timing is crucial as competitors quite literally race the tide.

Both Rachel and Matt produced excellent runs over a tough course. The pair completed the demanding 29‑mile route together in a time of 6:22:00, earning Rachel 1st place in the FV50 category - well done Rachel!

Elsewhere on the Saturday, Sue Tremlett was flying the Trotters’ flag at the two-day Running Events Devon “We Challenge You.”

This offers runners a flexible and sociable endurance challenge. Based on an out‑and‑back lap format, the event is designed to provide constant encouragement, with runners regularly passing each other on the course, creating a friendly atmosphere where no one ever feels alone.

Sue completed a marathon distance in 4:54:59, putting in a strong and steady performance across the multi‑lap course. This was particularly pleasing for Sue, as it served as a make‑up marathon after she was unfortunately unable to take part in the North Devon race due to injury.

Moving on to Sunday and the Plymouth Half Marathon once again delivered one of the South West’s most iconic race experiences, drawing runners from across the region and beyond to take on the 13.1‑mile route through Britain’s Ocean City.

Starting and finishing on the historic Plymouth Hoe Promenade, the race offers a scenic but challenging course, combining city streets with coastal views and green spaces.

The undulating route takes runners through the vibrant city centre, around the historic Barbican harbour, and out towards the attractive, tree‑lined grounds of Saltram Estate.

A crossing of Laira Bridge provides a key point in the latter stages before competitors return to face a steady climb back to the Hoe, where a strong finish awaits. The event continues to attract a highly competitive field, including elite athletes from across the country, adding to the prestige and atmosphere of the day.

A total of eight Teignbridge Trotters took to the start line, putting in strong performances against a competitive field. Leading the club home was Jon Pressling, who recorded an impressive 1:23:40, finishing in a superb 39th place overall, an excellent result given the strength of the field.

Trotter results: Jon Pressling 1:23:40 (39th), Michael Border 1:46:55, Briony Calderwood 1:50:38, Jasper James 1:53:15, Kevin Besford 2:08:36, Lisa Sandford 2:08:57, Susanne Westgate 2:31:09 and Darren Petch 3:12:46.