| After a two year absence The Poacher returned to Otby - the only orienteering area in Lincolnshire with significant hills. The weather was dry, which in one way was a pity as planner Brian Slater provided waterproof maps for competitors, a first for Poacher but for the meantime probably a one-off. This continues the Poacher tradition of setting the highest standards for mid-week orienteering. Please note that these maps are biodegradable but not recyclable. Brian made excellent use of the area which is used with the kind permission of three local farmers. The car parking area, including toilets, is much appreciated. All courses had plenty of climb with veteran mid Lincolnshire orienteer Geoff Holmes likening the Short course leg from control nine to ten with the North face of the Eiger. Long course competitors debated the optimum route to number eight - low or high - the jury is still out. After another win, Zac Field is now one Wednesday evening away from a potential eight maximum scores on the Short course. Behind, Jack Robinson had his best run of the season so far finishing in second place, as did Grasby's Gary Robinson who finished well clear of son Jay. Just behind him was Jessica Beresford fresh from her excellent age group win in the Shropshire three day event held over the bank holiday weekend. Lincoln's Paul Murgatroyd outran the opposition on the Long course ahead of Master Champion Neil Harvatt and Norwegian visitor Helge Stenerud. Market Rasen's Stephen Higgins showed his potential in sixth with several fastest legs. Next week it is Normanby Park, a small but navigationally technical area - the nemesis of many. |