OCTAVIAN Droobers Orienteering Club member Will Gardner claimed the British Middle Distance Championships title at Rushmere Country Park.
Gardner won in a time of 30 minutes and 56 seconds on the M21 6.3km course and is a member of the GB squad and is ranked 11th in the British rankings.
A title had previously eluded Gardner despite achieving many podium finishes across various competitions.
The championships were organised by East Anglian Orienteering Association and held at Rushmere Country Park on a varied area of heathland and native woodland.
Three other Droobers also achieved podium finishes with Kirsten Strain second in 37 mins 11 secs, just 10 seconds behind the winner, on the W35 5.1km course, Alistair Landels second on the M50 5.5km course in 35 mins 35 secs and Sue Hallett third in 42 mins 29 secs on the 2.5km W75 course.
Several club members enjoyed great runs with full results available to view online at: www.britishmiddlechamps.org.uk.
And the championships were open to all club orienteers from around the country, and uniquely amongst other sports competitors do not have to qualify to take part.
The next local event, ideal for newcomers, takes place at War Memorial Park, Coventry, on Saturday, March 19 from 11am to 12 noon.
For details of how to take part in this fun outdoor active sport, ideal for beginners, runners and families of all ages please visit the Droobers website at: www.octavian-droobers.org or email: [email protected] or contact Karin Kirk on: 01926 632189.
