The Ceevacs' move of their annual autumn run from Cobble Hill to Glenora was a success.
A total of 347 runners finished the two races last Sunday: 210 in the 10k race and 137 in the half marathon, an increase over participation in the 2013 Shawnigan/Kinsol Half Marathon and Half-a-Half races.
"The new course, which wound through Glenora's quiet roads and the Trans Canada Trail was very well-received, although the hill on Lee Road got a lot of attention," race director David Vanderlinde said.
Also a big hit among the runners were the post-race refreshments.
"The wine at the finish line along with the complimentary wine tastings at our Winery Sponsor Vigneti Zanatta was also well-received and participated-in," Vanderlinde said.
Massages provided by the West Coast College of Massage Therapy were also appreciated.
Finishing first in the half marathon was Shawnigan Lake School grad Logan Roots of Victoria, with a time of one hour, 14 minutes and 46 seconds. The top female runner was also the second finisher overall, Victoria's Claire Morgan, with a time of 1:24:32.
Duncan's own Richard Light won the 10k with a time of 37 minutes even. Tanya Ness of Shawnigan Lake was the top female runner with a time of 43:32.
"Overall, it was a successful, inaugural Cowichan Autumn Classic Half Marathon and 10k event," Vanderlinde said, expressing his gratitude to the residents of Glenora for their patience on race day, as well as to the Cowichan Ham Radio Club, KidSport Cowichan and Glenora Farm, and the volunteers from the Ceevacs Roadrunners.