A bright and sunny Sunday morning greeted the runners for the 66th Dovedale Dash, held in the Derbyshire Peak District.
Starting at the top of Lin Dale, the runners lined up side-by-side, ready for the mad scamper down into the confines of the dale. Continuing downwards towards the famous Dovedale stepping stones, there was to be no dry crossing for this event as everyone just runs through the cold water as best they could, with some inevitable fallers, much to the delight of the spectators.
A section of path was welcoming to soggy and cold feet before heading over grassy hills and fields towards Ilam. Crossing the River Manifold by bridge, across more fields and through woods to Coldwall Bridge over the Dove.
The return section towards the stepping stones was a rocky challenge in places, and then the final Lin Dale 1/2 mile uphill slog to the finish.
Peter Jennings from Grantham Running Club finished in a time of 39:13 and 177th out of 1144, age grade 7th of 92.
First male was William Griffiths (Corby AC) in 28:47.
His sister, Elizabeth Griffiths (Corby AC), was 1st lady in 32:59.
A big shout out to the organisers, marshals, and supporters for the event 🙌 . Where else would you see dinosaurs chasing lifeguards out of the water??😃
Photos/Video courtesy of Sandra Jennings (“careful Pete” 🤣).
