MORE ABOUT TAVISTOCK ATHLETIC CLUB . . .

INTRODUCTION

The club was formed in 1985 to promote athletics in all its forms in the area, and at present is going through a very successful phase with over 200 members drawn from all over West Devon and East Cornwall.

We pride ourselves on being friendly, and welcome all newcomers whatever their ability and whether they have belonged to a club or not. So, whether you are already a seasoned athlete or a first time jogger, we can cater for you. We have a strong Junior Section for 8 - 16 year olds, and particularly welcome whole families.

The club competes throughout the year with individuals and teams taking part in Cross Country, Road and off-Road races and Track & Field Meetings. Our more dedicated members travel to take part in big city marathons, or have represented Devon and the South West, but there is no compulsion to compete, and many of our Senior members just come along to keep fit and enjoy the company. For those who do wish to compete there are many events, near and far, to take part in to suit every ability and preference.

During the Spring and Summer, the whole club competes in the Devon Open Series - a Track & Field League which includes other clubs in the county. In the Autumn and Winter, Cross Country comes to the fore with the club competing against other clubs in Devon & Cornwall. The Juniors also take part in the Devon Sportshall League where running, throwing and jumping events are modified so they can take place indoors.

We have a large band of coaches who have contributed to our success : all coaches are fully qualified. The club has an active programme to ensure its coaches upgrade their skills. The club adheres to all the Codes of Conduct laid down by our parent body, UK Athletics, especially those relating to Juniors. The club has a Welfare Officer to ensure these codes are carried out - copies of the codes are available on request.

The club is always on the lookout for coaches, so please let us know if you are interested in coaching.

CLUB NIGHTS

The club meets on Tuesdays at Tavistock College, Crowndale Road throughout the year in the classroom within the Sports Centre. Parents are asked to bring their children in for registration 15 minutes before the start of their session. Training for the Juniors takes place in the Sportshall, on the track, in The Meadows, around the streets of Tavistock and even on the moor depending on the age and ability of the group. At present there are 7 main junior training groups and we have just added 2 'specialist' groups for High Jump and Throwing events.

Seniors meet for registration on Tuesday and Thursday at 6.15 and train for an hour from 6.30. Here we have 5 main training groups which, between them, cater for all abilities and preferences. These groups focus on running which can be on the track, the road or the moor. At present we do not have any specific senior training groups for sprint, hurdle or field events.

CLUB EVENTS

The club organises 2 major events during the year, the Town Relay races in the Meadows during Carnival Week, and the Tavy 7, a 7 mile road race starting and finishing at Middlemoor, Whitchurch Down in November. All members are asked to help with these. In 2010 we are adding a race to our calendar - The Tavy 13, a half marathon starting and finishing at Tavistock College which will take place in April.

MEMBERSHIP, SUBSCRIPTIONS & BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

It is club policy to allow new members to attend 3 meetings as taster sessions after which you expected to join the club. To become a member, fill in an application form, and hand it with your fee to whoever deals with the registration of the Juniors on a Tuesday.

Money raised is spent on hiring the College facilities, affiliation fees, the purchase of equipment, courses for coaches and competition fees for members representing the club in the various leagues.

CLUB COMMITTEE & COMMUNICATION

The club has a general committee to deal with the day to day running of the club, with sub committees formed to organised specific events when required. The AGM is held at the end of January. The officers you may wish to contact are listed under 'Contacts'.

Please contact the relevant committee member if you have any queries, or wish to raise any matter. We wish to make the club even better, so your input will be very welcome.

Important announcements are made before each session, and details of recent & upcoming events are posted on the notice boards and our website, and a monthly newsletter is produced.