The University of the West of England (UWE) Glenside Campus was the start and finish for the Frenchay 10K (Sunday 16 April) and there were double honours for Bristol and West AC. They scooped a win and third place plus first lady at this long established race.

Old and still gold, the Frenchay 10K is a popular and well organised event that has been in existence since 1980. Designed for runners of all abilities, from novices through to experienced club athletes, it provides a challenge whilst raising funds for charity. This year’s chosen recipients were Children’s Hospice South West and Freewheelers EVS Blood Bikes. Star Legal - Solicitors were the official sponsor.

Runners set off at 11am on an ‘undulating and scenic course in and around Frenchay and Broomhill. They completed a lap around the university campus to begin with – possibly a ‘softening up’ ahead of the three big hills. The route included Snuff Mills along the riverside on the Frome Valley Walkway and the green spaces of Oldbury Court Park.

What about the inclines? The first was near the end of 3K rising up to Oldbury Court Park; the second at 6K after crossing the River Frome and the third or the ‘sting in the tail’, was Blackberry Hill at 9K.

All of this took place on a mix of tarmac, footpaths and pavements where there was no shortage of encouragement from marshals and local residents who stood clapping and cheering everyone as they passed by.

Adam Stokes of Bristol and West AC was the winner, crossing the finish line in 33:09. David Bruce finished more than two minutes behind him, taking second place in 35:19. Stokes’ teammate Daniel Cannon was third in 36:18.

Katrina Entwistle’s win made it a bumper day for Bristol and West AC. She was the winning female in 38:16 followed by Katie Hughes of Westbury Harriers in 40:28. Jessica Bruce came third in 41:35.

View all the results at the runABC Midlands Race Listing page.

There were trophies for the first 3 senior men & women; first 3 senior veteran men & women and first super veteran man & woman and also for first junior male, first junior female and winning male and female teams.

Every finisher received a commemorative mug - perfect for a post-race brew!

All race proceeds donated to the chosen charities.

Image courtesy of Frenchay 10K.