The Big Dipper

The Big Dipper HM

Sunday 15th September 2024 | Dronfield

Dronfield Running Club invites the bravest of hill-seekers to take on one of the toughest half marathon road races in the country.​

The Big Dipper is Dronfield RC’s flagship event, and it has a fearsome reputation for being very hard. A reputation that is well deserved.

Back for a third year, the race has proven to be incredibly well reviewed by all who've taken it on. Finishing line feedback ranging from “I’m never doing that ever again!” to “I really enjoyed that, what a stunning route!” 

While many races are increasing in price, we've reduced entry fees this year to just £20. In order to reduce our costs and carbon footprint, we've stripped the race right back to its very essence; no medals, no gimmicks: just runners versus hills.

Rolling through the North East Derbyshire countryside and the Peak District National Park, the route sees runners tackle 1,675ft of ascent across our stunning and testing course. 

There will be no personal best times.

Starting at The Hyde Park Inn at the aptly named 'hill top' area of Dronfield, The Big Dipper heads out through the village of Barlow towards Shillito Woods and then climbs up and through the hamlet of Unthank, before heading back into Barlow and skirting the edge of holmesfield.

The race takes place on closed roads. It's grueling but efforts on the hills are paid back tenfold in the form of stunning vistas and beautiful Peak District backdrops.

​Expecting a sprint finish? Think again. there's a sting in the tail as runners finish up hill back to the Hyde Park Inn for refreshment that's as well earned as any.

Dare to ride?

Entries are now open at http://www.dronfieldrc.co.uk/big-dipper