Big Dipper
The Big Dipper is an annual running race around the village. Organised by Nigel Misselbrook, it's not called the Big Dipper for nothing. On the 5.6 mile run 90% is either running up or down hill. with the final steep hill at Probyn's Pitch set to test you right at the end. The race is open to keen runners and fun runners.
The race started in 2006 when nearly 60 individuals braved torrential rain, thunder and lightening to complete the circular course which followed country lanes from Upton Bishop to Kempley and back. They were rewarded with excellent marshalling, a unique T shirt and tea and cakes at the Millennium Hall.
Alongside the adult race there are fun races for children. The race starts and finishes at the Millennium Hall and is held in September/October every year.
A record ninety-five runners enjoyed the challenge this year in a refreshing drizzle. The circular 5.6 mile course follows country lanes from the Millennium Hall and men’s winner James Rose left the rest of the field after one and a half miles to finish comfortably ahead. The lady’s winner, Nikki Morgan, was one of a large contingent from Chepstow Harriers who had made The Big Dipper one of their club championship races. Oldest competitor was 73 year old Syd Wheeler and the youngest were Felix Rusby and Gareth Lloyd both 15 years. Tea and cakes and a memento rewarded all finishers. Children’s races on the playing field were also well supported with competitors as young as three years all receiving a medal. Upton Bishop Sports and Social Club are grateful to all their sponsors including Westons Cider, Chaseview Veterinary Clinic, Watsons Petroleum, FAB Recycling, Chicory Crops, RP Joinery and Frontier.
Results: Men
1st James Rose of Severn AC in 33minutes
2nd Paul Murrin of Chepstow Harriers in 34mins 24secs
3rd Luke James Unaffiliated in 35minutes 18secs
1st Male Veteran 40 Clifford Berry of Ledbury Harriers in 35mins 22secs
!st Male Veteran 50 Paul Dodd of Chepstow Harriers in 35mins 45secs
1st Male Veteran 60 Neil Grant of Chepstow Harriers in 40mins 14secs
1st Team Chepstow Harriers
Ladies:
1st Niki Morgan of Chepstow Harriers in 38mins24secs
2nd Lu Summers of Chepstow Harriers in 39mins 23secs
3rd Alison Cook of Hereford Couriers in 40mins 22secs
1st Lady Veteran 40 Robyn Perkins Unaffiliated in 42mins 37secs
1st Lady Veteran 50 Jenny Hughes of Arena 80 AC in 42mins 43secs
1st lady Veteran 60 Brenda Avery of Chepstow Harriers in 46mins 12secs
1st Team Chepstow Harriers
For more information contact Nigel Misselbrook at nmisselbrook@btinternet.com
Contact the Parish Clerk
Mrs S Lawrence at ubpcclerk@yahoo.co.uk
