Over 500 runners got their feet wet at the 63rd Dovedale Dash (Sunday 2 October) as they tackled the tough 4.75 mile course up hill and down dale. Waiting for them were the Stepping Stones and a dip in the River Dove.

A long standing race that dates back to 1953; the Dovedale Dash attracts a mixture of participants, from youngsters to the *ahem* ‘mature’ athlete, all of whom had a memorable day. Conditions were fine and dry – it is often muddy – and there was a sense of excitement as the race bounced back after a three year absence due to adverse weather and Covid. This is a well organised affair by local villagers.  

The field included those competing for trophies and club pride, a few running with their dogs and others out to have fun. Fancy dress is a feature of the event with runners showing their creative side in a variety of ways, making for an eye-catching sight on this cross country course in the Derbyshire Peak District. 

There was a Children’s Race of 1 1/4 miles for U10’s and U12’s starting at 10am that went around the bottom of Thorpe Cloud. It continued down to the River Dove but avoided any river crossing or the stepping stones then up Lin Dale to the finish. 38 youngsters took part with Isaac Ryder the winning U10 boy in 10:32 and Evie Bowring the winning U10 girl in 16:02. For the U12’s, Thomas Griffiths was the winning boy in 11:01 and Katie Lasseter the winning girl in 12:06. 

It was the turn of the adults at 11am. They set off from Thorpe Pastures, following an off-road route consisting of field paths and open ground. The route took them into Lin Dale and the River Dove which is known to be a mite chilly! Runners either plunged through the water or navigated the stepping stones before carrying on and over the Ilam Bridge to Coldwall Bridge: then across Coldwall Bridge and along the other side of the River Dove followed by a climb up Lin Dale and the finish. 

Lucas Parker of Stockport Harriers was the winner in 28:07 and was awarded the Izaak Walton Shield. Bethan Everson of Ely Runners was the first female in 34:50 and the winner of the Peveril of the Peak cup. 

A preliminary set of results is available via the runABC race listing page.

This event raises funds for Thorpe Village Hall and various local charities.

See everyone next year for the 2023 Dovedale Dash on 1 October – weather depending!

Image courtesy of Louise Clarke.