THIS year’s Frenchay 10k charity road race was held in almost perfect running conditions.
The 43rd edition of the popular race on April 12 saw 527 runners pound the streets and parkland around Snuff Mills, Oldbury Court, Fishponds and Frenchay.
First-placed runner Charlie Worsfold returned to UWE’s Glenside campus over 60 seconds quicker than the next fastest finisher, in a time of 34 minutes, 26 seconds.
The first female finisher was Gabriela Ritter Sherratt, in a brilliant time of 40m, 40s.
The coveted team prizes were closely fought as always.
Westbury Harriers won the male team award, with Bristol & West AC picking up the female team prize.
The excellent weather made for very fast times, with no fewer than four course records broken in our different age categories.
A small army of volunteers made the event run smoothly, and we were very grateful for support from our three nominated charities this year: Friends of Page Park, Bristol and Weston Hospitals Charity and Freewheelers (Blood Bikes), together with Emersons Green Running Club.
Staff at the Oldbury Court Inn were supportive at our halfway house water station, and Star Legal (Fishponds) yet again provided valuable support as our main sponsor.
The 10k began in 1980, with the aim of raising valuable funds for local charities whilst providing a challenging yet fun race for runners of all abilities.
The organising committee is delighted that this year’s event was completed successfully, with thousands of pounds to be donated.
Next year’s race is scheduled for April 19.
Dave Guyatt, Race Director