Axe Valley Runners David and Susi Sadler travelled to mid-Wales for the infamous Man v Horse race in Llanwrtyd Wells over the weekend.

It was blisteringly hot for the 21-mile race, which challenges runners to beat horses across mountainous terrain with a gruelling 3,800 feet ascent. 

For only the fourth time since the race began in 1980, a runner did actually beat the horse with Daniel Connolly finishing in 2:24.38.  

First horse home was DNS Ronaldo, ridden by Kate Atkinson in 2:34.25.  

The race was started by BBC newsreader Sophie Raworth, along with endurance runner and peloton instructor Susie Chan, with the two of them then running the race.  

David and Susi are dedicated Man v Horse participants, with David having taken part eight times and Susi nine, including once riding a horse. They described this year's event as the hardest yet but loved it more than ever! 

Sizzling Southend

On Sunday, Axe Valley Runner Ron Seward ran a half-marathon in sizzlingly Southend, where the mercury hit 26 degrees.

A brilliantly-marshalled course comprised of two loops along the seafront, interspersed with water sprays and numerous drinks stops. 

Ron finished 291st with more than 1,500 finishers in 1:47:06. Given the conditions he was pleased with the time.   

Tutu Tribe celebrate milestones at parkrun

Another sunny Saturday in Seaton saw 244 finishers at parkrun and milestones for Axe Valley Runners – Louise Rawlins celebrating completing 25 events and Haydn Boehm reaching 50 volunteer stints.  

At parkrun, volunteering and completing the 5k is celebrated with milestone T-shirts, wristbands, buffs and vests, available when you reach 25, 50, 100, 250 and, even, 500.  

First finisher on Saturday was Ritchie Durrant in 17.44 with Debbie Whiston first female in 19.55, also second on age-grade with 79%.  

Andy West, back from injury, was third on age-grade with 77% for his 22.43.  Ann-Louise Gridley got a personal best, 32.44 and Simon Dimmock celebrated an impressive 200th parkrun.