UWE Bristol is continuing its partnership with the Great Run Company and the University of Bristol (UoB) in encouraging students, staff and alumni to take part in the 2020 Great Bristol 10K on Sunday, May 3.

Following the success of last year’s university starting wave, where representatives from both institutions set off together in red and maroon T-shirts, entrants from UWE Bristol will again tackle the 6.2 mile-course. As in 2019, the route will pass through some of Bristol's most famous landmarks, including the harbourside, Clifton Suspension Bridge and St Mary Redcliffe Church before finishing on Anchor Road.

Professor Steve West, Vice-Chancellor of UWE Bristol, said: “The Great Bristol 10K is a wonderful celebration of community within our great city and we are proud to run alongside the University of Bristol as we participate in the run for a second year.

“I look forward to seeing an impressive turnout of red UWE Bristol T-shirts amongst the sea of participants. By taking part, our students, staff and alumni are looking after their physical and mental wellbeing in a fun and engaging way.”

To encourage entrants of all fitness levels, including first-time runners, the University offers discounted entry and a free race T-shirt, and provides access to free training programmes, running groups and a Facebook group to support preparation for the event.

William Liew, Chief Financial Officer at UWE Bristol, who took part in last year’s event, said: “I was very proud to represent the University and see all the staff and students turning out to run for UWE. 

“Entering the Great Bristol 10K - and the fear of being last - encouraged me to take up exercise for the first time in years.”

UWE Bristol student Masha Orlova, an undergraduate in business and human resource management, participated in last year’s race. She said: “The thought of running a 10K can be daunting for some people, and that was the case for me when I signed up. But looking back, I can't recommend the 10k enough – there's support all around you up until the finish line, and you are surrounded by like-minded people.”

Urban planning student Raphaella Vieira Da Silva ran in the 2019 event and is planning to participate again this year. She said: “It was an opportunity that made me realise that I can do it. For anyone thinking of trying something new, go for it. Once you get past your fears the feeling after is amazing, and it’s so much fun! Do it for you and believe in yourself.”

Josh Edje, VP Sports and Health at The Students’ Union at UWE, said: “The Students’ Union is excited to be supporting the Great Bristol 10k for the second year in a row. We are proud to be partnered with an inclusive event that is open to all abilities and encourages physical activity. We had a great turnout last year with lots of students, staff and alumni getting involved in Team UWE Bristol. We’re hoping we can do even better this year!”

David Hart, Partnerships Director for The Great Run Company said: “The several hundred UWE students and staff who took part in the Great Bristol 10k last year were one of the highlights of the event. The sense of team spirit was clear to see and whether they ran, jogged or walked, the sense of achievement was very evident as they crossed the finish line! We are delighted to welcome them back for 2020.”

This year’s race is expected to draw more than 12,000 participants. Entries are open until 27 March. For more information on signing up, see here.