RUNNERS took on the Halloween-themed Twmbarlwm Terror multi-terrain race organised by Fairwater Runners of Cwmbran on Sunday.
Tim Batchelor of Chepstow Harriers stormed home second out of the 181 finishers, crossing in 53 minutes 29 seconds, 2.11 behind winner and course record breaker Munro Lewis of Islwyn Harriers, and 50 seconds ahead of his own club mate and first over-50 man home Paul Murrin in third.
MonRoss Trailblazer Gavin Jones also finished sixth in 56.50, five places and 1.48 up on Harriers' Dickie Hudd, who was second fastest senior veteran.
Third senior vet home and 13th in 1.01.12 was fellow Harrier Andy Hughes.
Laura Davies of Lliswerry Runners in 12th overall was fastest woman in 58.44, with Harriers' Lisa Jeffery fourth and fastest over-50 female in 1.09.23 and club mate Jan Morris third in class in 1.11.50.
Spirit of Monmouth's Maixent Gaillard and James Exton also travelled to Risca to take on the tough seven-mile scenic race along footpaths, open fields, country lanes and woodland to the Twmbarlwm peak and back, which included a total ascent of some 1000ft and some runners in Halloween costume.
James crossed in 1.13.34 for 10th in the over-50 age category, while Maixent overtook a scary witch who had lost her broom and crossed in 1.21.52.
Harriers' Denise Evans also took the over-60s women's class in 1.27.40, with club mate Barbara Maddison third in 1.28.40.
Also on Sunday, Spirit's ladies were out racing at the Richard Burton 10k which started at Cwmavon Rugby Club and featured nearly 1,000 runners.
Sian Fielding, Julie Gee and Elizabeth Sim raced a thrilling and renowned race that combined some tough terrain, scenic pathways and challenging hills with a vibrant community spirit.