THE Poppit Sands 5k series, organised by Cardigan Running Club, is a popular summer event for runners from near and far.

This is no gentle 5k though, with a gruelling two thirds of the course on the sandy beach of Poppit.

The series is regarded as one of the most scenic races in west Wales and attract both competitive club runners and recreational runners looking for a unique 5K experience.

The third and final race of the series this year attracted 136 runners for the senior race, and an amazing 98 in the juniors 2k race.

Four Aberystwyth Athletic Club runners were amongst them, including Now Schiavone who clocked a great time of 10:34 in the 2k which is a full out and back run on the beach.

Older brother Moi Schiavone has completed all three races this year, managing a second place finish overall in the 2k on the first date just before turning 14 and therefore having to step up to the 5k for the last two races.

Moi completed the final race in 27:10 to finish sixth 14-17 male.

Stalwart Dave Humphreys had another strong run to finish in 26:43 and just missing out on the M60 podium by one place.

Owain Schiavone finished fourth overall in 18:51, to add to his previous second and third overall places, and completing his hat-trick of M40 category wins in this year’s series.

“I’ve never managed to get down to this series before, so I was really glad to do so this year” said Owain.

“It’s brilliantly organised by Cardigan Running Club and it’s important to support classic club races like these.

“It’s a testing race with so much of the course run on the sand, but that’s great and means there’s no point looking at your watch, it’s a pure race.”