| A fine evening in Nettleton Woods saw another seventy plus turnout test their navigation skills and fitness. The assembly area at the western end of the forest provided excellent parking in pleasant surroundings but this venue was not easy for planner Vernon Davis. Permission to use a significant piece of woodland near the Guide Camp was withdrawn. Vernon overcame this brilliantly to produce courses that were not only physically challenging at this time of the year but made competitors carefully consider their route choices. Top positions on the Long and Short were almost identical to last week, although the Long was more closely contested with little more than a minute separating the top three. Two to watch here were Glentham's improving Dave Jolly and the strong running Stephen Higgins from Market Rasen who made his debut in orienteering last week at Willingham. Both finished ahead of several experienced Poacher participants. After four events the leading contenders for the seven trophies are mainly the 2008 winners. Pat O'Grady leads the Ultra Vets but John Chaney could spring a surprise if he can get the requisite eight counting events. Current Super Vet holder Mike Smith leads in that category whilst the Masters looks to be a shootout between current holder Neil Harvatt and former Poacher Champion Dean Field. Paul Murgatroyd's odds have shortened for the Lincolnshire Poacher Trophy after another maximum. On the Short Course the Field family figure in all three groups. Zac has what looks to be an unassailable lead whilst younger brother Jake contends with Sam Offler for the junior cup. Mother Rosie Field again looks the favourite for the Ladies Trophy, although with eight events to count, things could change. Middle Rasen beckons next week planned by LOG's Paul Murgatroyd. |