One August Saturday morning, in the village of Hartington, nestled in one of the dales of the Peak District national park, a gathering of walkers and runners was taking place. The village was busy, shops and cafes were open early, whilst nervous energy and chatter was enveloping the village hall where the participants were registering and having their packs checked. With near perfect conditions, a gentle breeze and the sun was beaming down on the eclectic mix of beautiful souls from far and wide, out to enjoy the day.
Welcome to the 21st edition of the Dovedale Dipper. The Big Dipper is approximately 26.75 miles with 155 total participants, whilst the Little Dipper is about 15 miles with 135 total participants and commences an hour later (both have early start options as well as the qualifying ‘mass’ starts).
Peter Jennings was the only GRC member taking on the challenge of the Big Dipper, with Robin Atter, Simon Allsopp and Judi Allsopp taking on the Little Dipper. Peter’s aim was to take it at a steady pace and to walk up the hills, using poles if required. Robin was running with his friend from Gainsborough Striders and taking it equally easy, whilst Judi and Simon were also out to enjoy the lovely scenery and complete the challenge.
Along the routes the event is very well supported at the check points and the participants chat like they are on a school outing, which makes for a very pleasant and friendly challenge. The routes converge for a few miles between the Revidge and Wetton checkpoints which gave Peter the chance to meet up with Simon and Judi before the leg-destroying Ecton Hill and Wetton Hill combination, and the ever-smiling Robin further on at the Wetton checkpoint itself.
The Big Dipper mass start was won by: Michael Cheverton (Barrow Runners) in an impressive 3:34:22, with first lady home Olivia Theaker in 4:25:22.
Peter Jennings finished in 30th overall and winning the V60 category in 5:08:35, improving his PB by over 17 mins.
The Little Dipper mass start was won by: Tony Parker (Basingstoke and Mid Hampshire AC) in 2:07:44, with first lady Fiona Mee (Barrow Runners) in 2:42:22.
GRC Little Dippers:
Robbin Atter 4:03:33
Simon Allsopp 5:00:42
Judi Allsopp 5:00:46
A big thank you to all the volunteers and the organisers Peak Running for their hard work, enthusiasm and for providing a selection of food and drinks along the way. Robin can attest to how nice the cakes were at the finish.
Photos going up Wetton Hill courtesy of Mehul Vaitha.