May 17, 2009: “Victoria’s Bloomers

Despite unseasonably cool temperatures and winds that threatened to blow away our smallest competitors, the May 17 orienteering event at Keogan Hut in Gatineau Park was well attended. More than 60 SI results were posted, with some of the Intermediate course registrants navigating in teams of as many as four participants.

The start was scheduled for noon, due to the closing of the park’s roads until 11am for Alcatel Bike Sunday, but even before the gates were opened there was a line-up of orienteer’s cars on the road leading to Keogan. Our team at registration, Lynda Scrivens, and Electronic Punches, Isabelle Robert, were surrounded by eager participants even before we had finished unloading the cars, but quickly and confidently had things organized. Several participants helpfully carried gear from the parking lot to the hut, substantially speeding the set-up process, and I want to thank them for pitching in..

This was the first event I have organized in more than five years, and my rustiness showed in several areas. However, thanks to a number of people, a fine event took place. Lynda and Isabelle I have mentioned. Thanks also go to Bill Anderson, who created the maps, Eric Teutsch, who took the time to make sure that I had all the equipment for the SI timing, and Andrew Cornett, drafted me as Meet Director and refused to let me weasel out of agreeing to do so.

Finally, special thanks to Bert Waslander, who performed as controller, co-director, mentor, and took care of whatever else needed to be done, whenever it was required.

The final decision for course layout and control placement was mine, and any errors or omissions mine as well.

Thank you all who participated. I hope you enjoyed the event, and that we will see you again at the next meet.

Click here for Intermediate, Short Advanced and Long Advanced Results

Novice Course Results

14m – Philipe Turcanu

31m – Chanchoura Bouphasiri

33m – Krisjanis Krams

40m – Team T&S

44m – Puddicombes

47m – Emma Post

48m – Wallace & Grommit

57m – Cote Family

60m – Brian, Charlie, Max, and Persephone Miller

62m – Just Lost