Final thoughts before France

Joseph Terry, Sports Editor, looks ahead to a finely-balanced Rugby World Cup in France in September

THE Rugby World Cup will already be in full swing or nearly winding down by the time Exeposé returns to publication next year. Let’s give a final preview to the tournament, where even the frontrunners are on the backfoot.

Going the extra mile in Devon

Almudena Visser Velez gives Parkrun newcomers a guide to the best routes in Devon

SINCE September, I have found a new weekend activity at Exeter: running! Specifically, Parkrun, a weekly 5km event held each Saturday. Everyone is welcome, the mix of speedy runners, gentle joggers and even leisurely walkers makes for a friendly environment! I’ve tried several Parkruns in Devon so far:

Firstly, we’ll start with favourites Ireland. The late injury to Johnny Sexton in the Six Nations that ruled the Leinster player out of two finals could still prevail until France — although reports are just speculation, with little news to confirm or deny, and the star man for the Irish could be at home during the World Cup. Ireland are still one of the favourites to win the title, or at least Northern Hemisphere favourites as Six Nations Grand Slam winners de feating France; however, key players may be missing. Not as if they don’t have the quality to go all the way without Sexton, but the talisman could be dearly missed — Sexton has history with late match-winning drop goals at the Stade de France after all.

Another Northern Hemisphere side, Wales, also face a World Cup without veterans. In a shock set of announcements perhaps triggered by each other, Alun Wyn Jones and Justin Tipuric both retired from interna- tional rugby after having been selected for the World Cup training camp. Exeter's eyes will be looking to the chance for Dafydd Jenkins to cement a starting place, the 20-yearold EURFC and Chiefs player impressing in the Six Nations.

Wyn Jones’ exit from the international stage, and potentially from club rugby as he exits the Ospreys, presents the problems lying ahead for the WRU.

Another interesting dynamic that we must consider coming into the World Cup is whether Southern Hemisphere teams may benefit from the scheduling of The Rugby Championship tournament. A shortened format of one round-robin restricting the tournament to a 21-day duration evens the playing field for preparation compared to the Home Nations (such as England holding three or four friendly matches in August). However, will playing in a prestigious tournament aid New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Argentina to mentally ready themselves for the World Cup?

Exeter Riverside: This is popular with university students since it is so close to town. The route begins by the river near the quay, and loops around two different fields and through some woods. The rest of the path is on concrete. If you’re not keen on mud, this may be one to avoid in winter — it can get a bit wet!

Exmouth: Hands down my favourite so far, this route along the promenade parallel to the beautiful beach. I have done this simple route multiple times and even took my dog once! A highlight has been jumping in the sea afterwards and getting a lovely English breakfast with friends in a local pub. It’s easy to get to Exmouth, twenty minutes by train, or an hour bike ride along the estuary taking in beautiful scenery. This one is highly popular for runners pushing buggies, and you may even spot some four-legged friends!

These are the storylines that will continue to develop and dominate in the run-up to the spectacle itself, that sadly we won’t be able to cover on the print editions of Exeposé However, the twists and turns of the build-up make for a close affair in Paris for the Webb Ellis Trophy.

Teignmouth: Another seafront parkrun, this time on the other side of the estuary and easy to travel to by a 20-minute train from Exeter St David’s. Featuring three loops, it is usually less busy than Exmouth, meaning once the start line chaos has settled you’ll have plenty of space to run in peace. A concrete surface makes this suitable year around, although the coastline means it can quickly get misty.

Killerton House: If you fancy visiting a National Trust property this is great, accessible by a 20-minute number 1 bus. The route comprises of parkland, woods and farmland on grassy and stony trails. This beautiful estate featured on George Clarke’s show National Trust Unlocked where he took advantage of the lockdowns to take viewers behind the scenes at historic properties!

Sharpham Estate: A half hour train journey takes you to the lovely town of Totnes! This route is pretty new, taking you through some forests. Afterwards, you can treat yourself to some snacks. I’d particularly recommend the local ice cream! Stretch your legs with a stroll around Dartington Hall and catch a glimpse of some deer, even enjoy some scones — cream on first, we’re in Devon!