Matt and Neville combine for victory in the rain of Haldon Forest

It has been a quiet spell in the racing calendar for Torbay Triathlon Club but Matt Giles and his trusty canine companion Neville headed back to Haldon Forest for the second time in as many weeks.

After managing to dodge the showers for the previous event, they were not so lucky this time, racing in persistent Devon mizzle! Having waited patiently to come up against Jamie Howard (of South West Road Runners), another podium regular for Canicross in the county, the staggered start of this race made life interesting, with Matt catching up with Jamie with about 3km to go.

The lead changed regularly, as Jamie and his companion zoomed downhill and Matt and Neville powered up the inclines. Matt and Neville eventually took the win in 43:08, extending their lead at the top of the Purple Gecko Canicross Championship.

Two other Tri Club runners taking on an event were Louise Gentry and Sarah Sweatman, who travelled down to Newquay for the 10km race organised by Newquay Road Runners. A sell-out and second in the 2026 Cornish Gran Prix series.

A flat, fast race with a hill provided by a Cornish lane, according to the organisers. Louise brought home the age group silverware, finishing 2nd V45 lady in 42:59 and Sarah in 1:07:06.