Towpath Series 2025 – Race 1 Recap

3 days ago 0 0

The 2025 GWR Towpath Series got off to a flying start on Thursday, 23rd May with the first race of the series – a 10K trail run that saw a strong turnout and exciting competition.

Record Numbers and Club Turnout

A total of 249 runners crossed the finish line this year, marking a significant increase from the 192 participants in 2024. Southville Running Club brought an impressive 77 runners, contributing to the vibrant and competitive atmosphere.

Conditions were favourable, with clear skies and dry trails. Unlike last year, the course was free of fallen trees. However, the middle 1K section was notably narrow due to overgrown branches – an issue that has been flagged to the council and is expected to be resolved before Race 2.

Podium Results

Top 3 Men:

Ben Rawlins – 33:01 (Westbury Harriers)
Jamie Williamson – 33:09 (Bristol and West)
Will Massey – 33:25 (Westbury Harriers)

Top 3 Women:

Katy Roy – 39:24 (Bristol and West)
Daisy Mummery – 39:50 (Southville RC)
Beth Pudifoot – 40:42 (Bristol Trail Runners)

Ben Rawlins claimed the top spot in the men’s race and took home the much-coveted Toblerone prize.

Team Standings

Bristol and West
Westbury Harriers
Southville RC
Portishead Running Club
Great Western Runners
Bristol Trail Runners
Weston Athletic Club
Team Bath AC
Queens Square Running Club
Town and Country Harriers
None – Will check this…
Bristol Frontrunners
Bristol Up and Runners
GoodGym Bristol
Staple Hill Runners
Hogweed Trotters
Vegan Runners
Sole Sisters

Congratulations to all runners and teams for a fantastic opening race. The spirit of competition and community was on full display.

Because of this, everyone went home a winner as Oltra provided runners with a sample of their massage balm, I hope the many who thought it was lip gloss didnt eat it, although im sure it would have helped their mouths recover! If you tried it and liked it you can head to their website https://oltra.co.uk/ and get 20% your order with the code GWR 20.