Ottery Karen Hall 10k run set to get bigger and better in 2010 say organisers

THE Karen Hall 10k Run made a welcome return to Ottery last Sunday as 173 fundraisers braved torrential rain to take on the challenge.

It is hoped the race, organised by estate agent Nick Hall in loving memory of his late wife Karen, will have raised around �1,500 for the town's Carnival Committee and Cricket Club.

Nick said the response for the returning event was "absolutely brilliant" and has set his sights on attracting 300 runners next year to cement its place as "the best 10k run in the area".

A recent hip operation stopped Nick, 50, from taking part in the run- the first time he has missed it- but he did manage mange to sample some of the day's fun.

He said: "Doctors have told me to stay off my feet but I made sure I was driven to a drinks station along the route so I got to see all the runners and a few of my friends go past."

Nick's sons Luke, Mikey and Matthew all "ran for their mum". He said: "I'm so proud of them. We had a lovely family dinner afterwards and they were bubbling. They were all pretty chuffed and so was I."

"We've Had lovely e-mails of praise from runners who already want to put their names down for next year."

Exmouth runner Paul Duff was the first of 163 runners to cross the finish line in 35 minutes and 13 seconds. Amongst Ottery runners who did the town proud were King's School pupils Daniel Jewell,17, and Ross Boulton, 18, who finished 7th and 8th respectively.

Halls Estate Agent negotiator turned "unofficial race organiser" Rachel Down said local running clubs have praised Ottery's warm welcome and the number of youngsters who took up the challenge.

She said: "With funds going to the carnival committee, as a town, it was a really nice community event and something we can build on."

Praise has also been lavished upon Carnival Committee members and joint-organiser Martin Turvill, of ARP Services, who "worked their socks" off since 6am on the morning of the race.