History

THE RACK RAID 

(a brief history)

The Rack Raid is an all-day road running relay race event initially consisting of 13 stages, but now increased to 14 stages. 

The event starts in the village of Grosmont, finishes in Cwmbran and covers over 100 miles travelling around the picturesque countryside of the former county of Gwent, visiting towns and villages with noted historical sites.

The Rack Raid was established by Fairwater Runners Cwmbran former members, brothers Mark Lloyd and Steve Lloyd. 

The event was first held in 1993 to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Fairwater Runners Cwmbran and has taken place every year since, except when prevented by foot & mouth decease and the Covid 19 pandemic.

Since 1993 the number of running club teams competing has steadily increased from 10 to the now maximum limit of 30.

Many of the running clubs that competed in the first event in 1993 are still competing each year.

This year, 2026, will be the 30th time the event has been held and over the years 9 different running clubs have won the event one or more times.

The first Rack Raid was won in 1993 by Islwyn Running Club.

Chepstow Harriers have won the Rack Raid on 11 occasions, the most by any running club.
Fairwater Runners Cwmbran have won 6 times.

Islwyn Running Club, Lliswerry Runners, Pont-y-pwl & District Runners and Parc Bryn Bach Running Club have each won twice.
Cornelly Striders, Griffithstown Harriers, Pontypridd Roadents and Rhondda Valley Runners have each won once.
Winners of the most recent Rack Raid, 2025, and current holders of The Rack Raid Trophy are Parc Bryn Bach Running Club.

Why is the event called the Rack Raid?

It’s an acronym; Ruins And Castle Keeps.