Following a successful inaugural outing in 2022, the Big Dipper Half Marathon will return to the Midlands on Sunday 10 September with runners once again assured of a 'wild and wonderful ride'. It may be just a couple of weeks away, but if you are race ready then what's not to love about an event that offers stunning Peak District views as standard? 

While the views may be worthy of a selfie, runners should be aware that they can expect 510m of climb, but just imagine the sense of achievement this will invoke at the finish line... 

Organised by Dronfield RC, the Big Dipper Half starts near The Hyde Park Inn in Dronfield before heading out towards Barlow, Shillito Woods and then climbs up and through the hamlet of Unthank. Those in charge say: "The course is gruelling, hilly and has a sting in the tail - but completing it puts you in a small, select group of runners."

There were plenty of satisfied runners after last year's race, with one of them, Gary Lang, commenting: "It was possibly the best road event I've ever done. Great route. Quite brute-iful."

The event is timed, on closed roads with water stations en route. There will be plenty of marshals to offer words of encouragement when the going gets tough and photographers to capture the pain and glory. Then there is time to relax and refuel with food and drink at the event village and the Hyde Park Inn who are planning a BBQ and live music plus refreshments for runners and spectators.

Speaking about the club's raison d'être for organising the event a spokesperson said: "Since the beginning of Dronfield Running Club, we have always wanted to create opportunities for young people to get involved in athletics in our town. ​Profits from The Big Dipper go towards projects such as a community running track to encourage budding athletes."

If you'd like to know more, visit the Dronfield RC website. 

Image: The Big Dipper