Dovedale Dash

Dovedale Dash

The Dovedale Dash is a cross country race held in the Thorpe area near Ashbourne, in Dovedale within the south of the Derbyshire Peak District. The main course is 4 3/4 miles and runs mainly along field paths and open ground in the valleys of the rivers Dove and Manifold. A notable part of the route is the crossing of the River Dove at the Stepping Stones.

The event also includes a childrens Mini Dash of 1 1/4 miles around the foot of Thorpe Cloud. The Mini Dash is for U12s (11 and under) with U12 and U9 categories. The main race is for participants aged 12 years or older. Entry fees published for the event include £14 for adult main entries, £9 for under‑18s in the main race, and £5 for the Mini Dash.

The race was first held in 1953 and the organiser describes the event as the 66th edition. The event has attracted large fields in some years, and entries listed for the current entry period are shown in the event record. Parking is free on Thorpe Pastures. Some editions have been cancelled when the car park was too wet. The event can be busy on the day.

Practical details specific to the Mini Dash include a clockwise route round Thorpe Cloud, down to the River Dove alongside the river to the stepping stones (participants do not go over the stones or through the river), then uphill through a dale to the finish. Parents or guardians may accompany children in the Mini Dash. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.