A STRONG contingent of 14 members from Okehampton Running Club were among the 500 contestants for one of the first races of 2012, the First Chance 10K.

Organised by South West Road Runners, this is a scenic flat course along the paths and cycle ways beside the Exeter Canal. Conditions on the day were perfect, the weather being mild dry and still.

Roger Voaden was the first member to finish with his usual strong run which placed him 29th overall. Marilyn Cooper won the award for the female veteran 55 group for the third year in succession.

Jane Jones and Fiona Mugliston put in excellent performances with Jane gaining a personal best and Fiona taking part in her first 10K.

Times: Roger Voaden 37 minutes 15 seconds, Tom Gill 38.28, George Speak 38.50, Bryan Friend 39.53, Mervyn Rice 43.29, Tim Watson 45.37, Jane Jones 49.19, Marilyn Cooper 49.49, Brian Welham 50.31, Alan Luffingham 50.51, Katy Speak 51.11, Fiona Mugliston 51.16, David Mugliston 51.27, Abby Metherell 51.49, Clare Poulter 53.21