Event report: Bush 1

The first bush event of the season, on Mother's Day! There were 82 starters with 77 finishing without "mis-punching". Of course, mis-punching hides how much was achieved. There were a few unfamiliar faces, often in groups.

A flurry of starters early, with some getting away just after 9. The weather, arguably perfect, clear, cool with a good breeze.
Some competitors had a surprise at 116. The brick wasn't there in the beginning, affecting H1, H2, H4 and H5, but at least the flag with punch and the tape confirming that the number was 116. The brick was rushed out. Courses were put together in a short time. The original event location (Avon Valley) was changed due to planned burns and permissions took their time despite Graham's best efforts. Reuse of some controls and the start saved time.

Scanning the results, the courses look to have been the right length. The setter caught a few post-run conversations and heard that courses were challenging enough and interesting. It's kind of those who personally said thanks for setting the courses, though it's a team effort.

Congratulations to all the first placegetters: Hadrien Devillepoix (H1), Archie Brownlie (H2), Liam Dufty (H3), Paul Dowling (H4), Carol Brownlie (H5), Charlie Holt (M), Christine Brown (E) and Ryan Lawrence (VE).

Thanks to: Graham Braid for persisting in obtaining permission for the venue; controller Craig Dufty who sprinted out mid event to place SI 116; course setter Tom Brownlie who managed to find all his tapes for control placement without using a hard copy map; organiser Ken Brownlie, with help from Helen Post, who also instructed with Carol Brownlie; Mark Lommers for satellite services to the ever-ready McTeam of registrars; Riley McFarlane for powering the printer; WOW control collectors Dan Greig, Archie Brownlie, David McCauley, Chris Drury, Tom Brownlie, Helen and Ken Post, who also towed the toilet, and Nigel Wade from BO.

Results can be found in Eventor. Also check Livelox to see where others ran.

Photos: Finishers at Ngangaguringguring, taken by Carol Brownlie.