Over 80 runners from 21 running clubs were ready on the start line on the Exmouth beach at 11am to take part in the second running of Exmouth Harriers’ Westdown Wander.

It was an undulating multi-terrain challenge that would take them over sand, grass, mud, shingle and tarmac before they finished nine miles later on the footpath behind Exmouth’s Ocean on the Esplanade.

In favourable weather conditions, Thomas Humphrey from South West Road Runners led for most of the way, starting strongly in the first mile on Exmouth’s sandy beach with club-mate Jamie Howard.

Thomas pushed on over the hills from Orcombe Point to Westdown Beacon and was never challenged again before he crossed the finish line in first position in a marvellous time of 1.03.17. Jamie was caught in the final few miles by David Hill and Luke Moody who crossed the finish line one second apart to take the other two podium positions.

Claire Stone from the Ocean Lake Triathlon club was the first woman to cross the finish line in 18th place overall in 1.14.57, followed by Exmouth Harrier Dana Kalin in 22nd place overall in 1.17.37. Next was Naomi Shaw of South West Road Runners in 24th place in 1.17.55.

Exmouth Harriers had nine runners taking part with Josh Sale the fastest Harrier in 1.07.20 in 6th place overall. The fastest Woman Harrier was Dana Kalin.

Overall, 84 runners finished with Exmouth Harriers Race Director Bob Keast saying after the event: “A big thank you to all the runners, plus everyone who contributed to making the Westdown Wander such a super event.

“Well done to those who supported the runners, to those who set the course up and to the marshals who directed the runners safely around the course. Special thanks to Mark Cowen and his team from City Runs for helping with the event logistics and the team at The Bath House Pub on Exmouth Esplanade for inviting us to use their premises at the start & finish.”

There were plenty of positive comments from the runners including: “Exmouth Harriers always put on a great race.” 

“Thank you for a lovely race this morning. The Marshals were wonderful, the hilly route beautiful and the rain held off. Congratulations to all involved in a really great event.”