Team GB’s Henry Hart Smashes Dartmoor Discovery Record in Torrential Rain!
“I didn’t expect to break it by that much,” said Henry Hart, his voice barely audible over the storm’s roar. The Belgrave Harrier and Team GB athlete stunned both spectators and seasoned runners on Saturday, June 7, at the Dartmoor Discovery ultramarathon. Charging across the 32-mile course through relentless thunderstorms, Hart finished in an astonishing 3:18:53, shattering the previous course record of 3:29:24 set by John Ward in 2014.
Race Director Liz Barnett expressed, “Congratulations to Henry. Winning the DD is an incredible achievement, whatever the time – especially when the weather closes in. But setting a new course record by such a wide margin in torrential rain is unprecedented.”
The Dartmoor Discovery, organized by the Teignbridge Trotters, is renowned for its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather. This year, 172 runners completed the race, with Hart’s performance standing out as a testament to his exceptional endurance and determination.
Elizabeth Barry-Bradshaw of CLC Striders clinched the women’s title with a time of 4:22:04, while Exeter Harrier Steve Adams secured third place overall and set a new MV50 course record with a time of 3:59:31.
In the veteran categories, Nuala Smyth of the 100 Marathon Club posted a new FV60 course record of 5:06:11, slicing an incredible 22 minutes off the previous record.
The Teignbridge Trotters dominated the team events, claiming both the men’s and women’s trophies. The men’s team consisted of Kris Ward, Oliver Reynolds, and Adam Johnstone, while the women’s team included Helen Anthony, Freya Morrissey, and Mandy Wheeler.
Behind the scenes, the Teignbridge Trotters, supported by sponsors Sibelco, the Ilsington Country House Hotel, M I Plant, and Apex Scaffolding, ensured the event was conducted safely and smoothly.
This year’s Dartmoor Discovery will be remembered not only for the record-breaking performances but also for the resilience and spirit of the runners who faced the elements head-on. Their determination serves as an inspiration to all who dare to take on the challenges of ultramarathon running.
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