The Two Janets Take On the Drogo 10
The Drogo 10 is one of those races that lives long in the memory: tough, spectacular, unpredictable, and absolutely worth the effort. This year, conditions were every bit as challenging as expected — wet, hilly, and slippery underfoot — but that didn’t stop Janet W. and Janet R. from taking it on and representing Carn Runners in brilliant style.
A Race With a Reputation
Run on the stunning National Trust grounds around Castle Drogo and the Teign Gorge, the Drogo 10 is renowned for its mix of steep climbs, woodland descents, technical trail sections and breathtaking valley views. It’s considered one of the toughest 10-mile off-road races in the South West, and the weather this year only added to the challenge.
From the moment runners lined up at the start, rain was already settling in — a drizzle that turned into full Cornish-style wetness, soaking the ground and polishing the roots and rocks to a shine. In short: perfect Drogo conditions.
Hills, Mud and Grit
The two Janets tackled the course with determination from the very first mile. The route wastes no time in making runners work for it: long climbs, narrow forest trails, and lung-burning hills are all part of the Drogo experience. The rain meant mud — lots of it — but both Janets navigated the slippery sections with confidence.
The climbs up from the river are legendary among Drogo regulars, and this year they lived up to the hype. Runners were rewarded with sweeping views across the gorge whenever the rain eased, but most of the time it was head down, legs pumping, and pushing through the hills.
Despite the conditions, both Janets were smiling at the top — proof that grit and experience go a long way on courses like this.
A Carn Runners Double Act
Running the Drogo 10 is an achievement in itself, but running it together made it even more special. The two Janets supported each other throughout the course, tackling the steepest sections side by side and sharing the experience with the determination and camaraderie that define Carn Runners.
Their steady pacing, smart effort management and resilient mindset paid off brilliantly. They handled the toughest climbs, powered through the mud, and kept spirits high even when the rain was coming down hardest.
A Wet and Wonderful Race Day
Despite the weather, the atmosphere was as fantastic as always. Marshals cheered from exposed hillsides, spectators huddled under umbrellas, and runners encouraged each other every mile of the way. There’s something about the Drogo 10 that makes everyone feel part of a shared adventure — a tough one, yes, but an unforgettable one.
Both Janets crossed the finish line soaked, muddy and smiling — the perfect Drogo finish.
Well Done, Janets!
Huge congratulations to Janet W. and Janet R. for taking on the Drogo 10 and embracing every hill, puddle and downpour. It was hilly, it was wet, and it was a great race as always — and the Janets did the club proud. 💛💙
