Organisers' comments (The Ronsons & The Robinsons)
As the weather had been atrocious our hopes for a fine evening were not high – but in the event the skies were clear as we arrived at Ashton Court and we only had to contend with the wind. Eventually we managed to erect the tent to provide shelter for the registration table and prevent the maps and control descriptions blowing away.
There was a good turn out of runners (and walkers) tackling each of the three courses – including some children who had enjoyed the event at Blaise the previous week and were keen to try another yellow course. The light green course was the most popular, especially with the newcomers, some of whom had seen the notice in Venue and Anne Donnell's excellent tuition and advice was much appreciated. The Blue course appeared to provide sufficient distance for the experienced orienteers who had turned out for their midweek evening run.
The pre printed maps were welcomed by all runners and some were recycled for the late comers. No-one got lost or reported any missing controls – maybe the rain kept the vandals away. The last few participants finished their courses in the rain but the helpers managed to cook sausages on the BBQ before the downpour. The arrival of 6 limousines and two fire engines ferrying people to a Ball in the Mansion House provided some additional entertainment.
Although some runners had competed in the Adams Avery Relays at the same venue just 3 days before there appeared to be enough variety to keep everyone happy. Overall another successful event but many of the newcomers were disappointed this was the last informal of the season and they would have to wait until September for the next local orienteering event.
A huge thank you to Katy Dyer for organising the whole summer of informals – one event was quite enough for us!
