Blue skies set the scene for the 2003 Lacon Childe Road Race, the most successful race to date attracting 93 runners from across 10 counties for the 10K event. It even had its first international runner, who came all the way from Norway!

As usual the race was well supported both by the local running clubs and by casual runners, some of whom were running in their first race. Runners said the run was welcoming and well managed, and they enjoyed the scenic, hilly, stamina-building course.

The course record of 36 minutes, set in 2000 at the inaugural race, was shattered by Dave Mansbridge of Telford Athletic Club, who sprinted round in a magnificent 34 minutes and 55 seconds.

The second runner home, Steve Gould of Kidderminster & Stourport Athletic Club, also came in ahead of the original record, in 35minutes and 13 seconds.

First lady home was Anne Fallows of UWIC, in 43.12. First veteran male was Kevin Burke of Stourbridge RC in 37.23 and first veteran female was Mary Lou Stinton in 53.58.

Altogether, 29 fun runners, including the entire Coreley Girls Football Club, tackled a shorter but no less demanding 5K course.

The race was won in very quick time of 13.29 by Lauren of Bridgnorth Athletic Club.