Event report: WA MTBO Long Distance Championships

A wet and wild weekend greeted the course setters and the small number of intrepid competitors who turned up to Dwellingup for some fabulous courses set by Veronika Kubinova. There were more controls on the courses than we are used to in WA - a bit of European influence. The courses tested endurance, route choice, and fine navigation, and the variety of tracks tested riding skills (and wading through the high water in a creek crossing).

As well as the usual locals, the event was attended by Carolyn Jackson from Victoria, current W40 National Series title holder, who had a win in W21, despite being eligible for several other age classes. She was attracted here by the reputation of the course setter, and fond memories of the area and Duncan’s map from the 2016 Oz champs. Debbie McKay retained the WA resident trophy.

The M21 course was a close race between Ricky Thackray and Hadrien Devillepoix, with the virtual lead changing 4 times before Hadrien triumphed by 1min 17 seconds, with Shane Lewis 3rd. On leg 17 all 3 had either a minor incursion onto a short section of forbidden road, or an unmapped bit of track, but these were overlooked, as it did not change the standings.

Thanks to Jiri Vales who, despite illness, helped Veronika with the start. Also, to the many helpers for control collection, packing up and taking gear home: Peter Gillon, Ben Coetzer, Mark Newhouse, Mike Howe, Graham Smith, Rob Beattie, Debbie McKay, Rod and Trent Siviour, and Hadrien. A special thank goes to setter Veronika and to mapper, controller and organiser Duncan Sullivan.

Unfortunately, the novice computer operator didn’t get things quite right so there was a delay in presentations and getting results out. Many thanks to Melinda Richards and Jack Dowling for providing troubleshooting help over the phone, and for fixing up the mess afterwards (along with Rosalie McCauley). Competitors are reminded the championship classes are for pedal-powered bikes only. We will start offering e-bike classes routinely given their popularity.

Results are in Eventor.
Upload your track to Livelox and compare your route choices with those of your fellow orienteers.

Photo: WA MTBO long distace champions Hadrien & Debbie. Taken by Rob West.