Long O 1997

The present format of a two day event has come a long way since 1997. I came across the comments about it recently and thought some of the information would be of interest! Arthur Vince was the planner and there was a long course of 21.7km/1430m climb and a SHORT of 17.5km/1110m climb! The event was the introduction to orienteering for Andy and I who had taken part in KIMMs as fit runners (it was 15 years ago) but who could not navigate – Rosie still can't, I hear you say.

As you will see we were among the long list of retirements and I still recollect arriving back at the finish totally exhausted having taken the most appalling route choices and getting totally lost. QO members will recognise many names on the results list and it is good to see that many are still competing. Arthur wrote ―Yes, the going was tough.....I fear that some did not realise what "significant climb" actually meant....

One noticeable feature of the day was the friendly and sociable atmosphere......I got the impression that you thought it was a good idea which should be repeated.

Arthur‘s philosophy set the scene for all the ensuing events – novice orienteer Andy evolved into the event planner for a number of years and I've got out of having to run by controlling. 2010 was a well received event with Judy Craddock's catering reaching even greater heights. We hope to get a good entry this year – even if you aren't up to a long course have a go at one of the short (really) courses to get a flavour of the event.

Rosie Wych, 2012