Well I had a go!   I DID it!

When I saw the area on Thursday and watched Mike’s trek up to the start, my reaction was mixed. It did look like a lovely area – maybe for planning a walk with lovely views. Then watching the long line of orienteers snaking uphill to the start I wondered if I had the energy to take part on Friday as planned.

We were staying in a very peaceful cottage not far from Aberaeron and were all enjoying the holiday (Maisie our collie was with us too.) Friday’s event was to be the only one I took part in. We had had a few good walks during the week so I wasn’t feeling totally unfit; however ‘I had a go’ was definitely my planned title as I too joined the long uphill climb to the start.

I had seen Thursday’s map and was a bit concerned about the lack of familiar features, just crags, marsh and contours! I am always reassured when I find the first control. I had wandered a little too far north to the wrong crag cluster. However after that I didn’t lose map contact.

I was getting tired by the time I got to control 8 and made the mistake of following someone else and ended up going over a hill I should have skirted around. Number 9 was eventually easily found by following someone who was making for the same control and both got there by sitting down and sliding down the steep grassy slope!

It was amazing to discover I had finished (and wasn’t last!) and great to be encouraged on the run in by the Wimborne team at the tent. So, not only did I manage the course but I thoroughly enjoyed it too!

Mary Kite

Course 15 - click to view