Start the New Year off with a hard, hilly race courtesy of the Woodcote 10K. Known as the 'Toughest 10K in the South Chilterns', this race has a course for top amateurs and club runners alike whose legs (and lungs) will be pushed to their limits on 12 January. 

Starting at Woodcote Village Hall in Oxfordshire, the race is downhill for the first two to three miles which are followed by the ascents. There are more than enough hills to keep the climbers happy which they’ll encounter in the second half and a good variety of terrain to keep things interesting

Organised by The Rotary Club of Pangbourne with funds raised going to MND, Parkinson’s UK and Rotary Club of Pangbourne Charitable Trust and other chosen charities. These worthy causes will benefit from race proceeds as well as sponsorship, helping to make a difference to people’s lives. 

Organisers say of their race: "The Woodcote 10K is something of a challenge. Just completing the undulating, meandering course, along back roads, flanked by woods and farmland, gives a real sense of achievement. It is frequently described by participants as their favourite race of the year.

"Sign up and put the date in your diary now, its a great way to burn off the excesses of Christmas and raise money for important local causes."

More than 270 runners took part in 2024 with Cameron Weir of Abingdon AC winning the race in a time of 35:59 while Christine Halls was first female in 40:13. 

If you'd like to know more, visit the Woodcote 10K website.

Image: Woodcote 10K Facebook