The British number one, aided by brakewoman Kelly Thomas, completed the run in 54.38 secs in the first race which was won by German duo Sandra Kiriasis and Stephanie Scheider.

"The Whistler track is the fastest and most technical in the world, so to be in the top 10 shows I am making the required progress," said Walker.

British Bobsleigh coach Peter Gunn was also pleased with her performance.

He said: "Paula performed very well in a strong field.

"All the nations competing are world class drivers and this is a great start to our World Cup campaign."

British Bobsleigh performance director Gary Anderson said about the result: "This year our focus is to improve our FIBT ranking and top 10 finishes in World Cup races will ensure this.

"We must carry this momentum on to the next race in Calgary this weekend."

Walker and her team will now compete in the next round of the World Cup at the Calgary track tomorrow.

The rest of the Britannia Rescue British Bobsleigh team have also started the season positively.

The men's GBR1 driver John Jackson, who is also Walker's boyfriend, finished fifth and sixth in his two-man bob races in the Europa Cup with brakemen Kevan Crowell and Dave Smith at the Cesana track in Turin, Italy.

Jackson also led the four-man team to sixth position in the same competition with brakemen Lamin Deen, Keith McLaughlin and Dave Smith.


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