Nopesport

Whilst numerous lazy people were still in bed, lots of outstandingly active people had made their way the Gibraltar Barracks (in Hampshire, not Gibraltar) for the Aldershot Long-O and MTB-O.

There were a Long foot and MTB course and a short(er) foot and MTB course. There were some fantastic feats of endurance and determination, for many people just finishing was an achievement. Thanks must go to the British Army Orienteers for organising the event, Allan Farrington the planner (and lover of giant inflatable finish arches), Dave Rollins the planner (and ex-military celebrity chef) and a whole host of other people, driving us to the starts, hanging controls, collecting dead bodies and looking after the computer systems. Thank you!

The long Long-O was long, 35km long, now that’s long! Starting on Barrosa then to Bagshot Heath, Mytchett, down a canal onto Long Valley through Fleet Pond to Minley and down the Grand Avenue to finish (see photo). British International, World Rogaine silver medallist and Compass Sport editor Nick Barrable finished in 3:16:02, that's 5.6 m/kms, that's fast. But today was not about getting the fastest time, it was about taking part. Susan Skinner of SN was the only woman to take on the challenge, ducking under 5 hours in 4:57:55.

The Long MTB-O was even longer, 38km, but they did have bikes, but then they also had to stay on the tracks, generally. Dave Peel suspiciously had the fastest time. You may recognise his name, it's on the maps. Dave rode round in 2:41:34, a very good effort. The leading lady was Michaela Gigon in 3:00:17, you may recognise her name too, she is double MTB-O world Champion.

Obviously for some people the long courses would be too much, however there were 3 GB Squad members on the shorter Long-O. This was the last 16km of the Long course. Graham Gristwood ripped round in under 5 m/kms, 74:24. GB squad teammate Sarah Rollins was the fastest lady in 90:23.

On the shorter MTB-O course Paul Nixon lost his lead when "a thing came out and my wheel fell off". How very unfortunate. It was British Army member Philip Stuart, 1:44:57 and Christine Robinson of Slow 2:51:14 who posted the fastest times.

Congratulations to everyone who ran and cycled today, some very long courses and some heroic efforts. You are all winners!

Results may be found via www.baoc.org.uk

British Army, be the best!

Now that's what I call a run-in