CHARD Road Runners were out this weekend at the BHAM Trail 10k, and representing the club were an all-female line-up of Lizzie Smith, Helen Baxter, Claire Gibbs and Nicky Smith.

Setting out from Bower Hinton for this fairly flat off-road 10k trail race, the first action was to avoid the pinch point with a decision to either get wet or muddy!

Most opted for muddy, and Lizzie Smith was out first, showing her continued great form in both road and off-road events.

Close behind and using this fast route as preparation for a significant marathon at the end of April was Baxter.

Gibbs was in her wake as the race stretched out and crossed the River Parrett, and as the route reached the halfway marker at Gawbridge Bow, Nicky Smith had settled in and was picking off places.

The next challenge for the CRRs was the last kilometre into the finish line, with the aptly named Cripple Hill to contend with.

Lizzie Smith pushed hard to put a gap between her and Baxter, and on rounding the top of the hill she was first CRR home in 1h 07m 10s.

Next rounding into the farmyard was Baxter (1:10:21), followed by Gibbs (1:21:24) and Nicky Smith (1:33:11).