| Making his debut as planner Brigg's Pete Shew did an excellent job at Primrose Warren. Although the wood has probably been used by HALO more times than any other, Pete's courses visiting new control sites gave everyone a good navigational challenge with some close competition. None more so than on the Long course where Poacher Trophy main contender Paul Murgatroyd was pushed all the way by 2008 Master's Champion Neil Harvatt who is two age groups higher. Only sixteen seconds separated them with both using their new high speed dibbers. Has anyone calculated the advantage over fifteen or so controls? A notable performance came from W45 Helena who vanquished several regular male Poachers. Zac Field continued his excellent form with a clear win on the Short. Zac along with Ben Beresford has been selected for British Orienteering's Talent Programme Summer Training Camp at Lagganlia in Scotland this July. Both have taken part in the Poacher Series regularly since they were 10 years old or even younger. Other juniors going well on the Short are Sam Offler from Keelby, Jake Field from Beverley and Lewis Tuck from Grasby in only his sixth orienteering competition having graduated from the Newcomers course at the first Poacher this year. One to watch is the improving W12 Jessica Beresford. Thanks to Andy Holden, Helena Crutchley and Paddy Neligan who were kindly volunteered for Kite Retrieval in the pouring rain! The rota did not work this week. It would be much appreciated if anyone previously down to collect, who was unable to on their allocated night, could assist Andy Furnell and Kaele next week at Otby. And indeed offers of help from anyone for collecting controls after the events are always welcome. Next week we will find out if orienteers really do have a feel for contours. |