OMM 2 day score event
Report by Darren Graham
Now in it’s 51st year, the Original Mountain Marathon usually needs no introduction. A two day event and always held on the last weekend in October to guarantee ‘testing’ weather conditions, the OMM test runners ability to navigate their chosen course as a team of two, as well as to carry equipment for an overnight camp. And to make it more interesting, all routes are not given until the moment the runners start each day, including the overnight camp site. There are four linear routes and 3 Score events (orienteering) to choose from with the score events proving to be the more popular options for Toddies. Mandy Goth once again proved that being fast isn’t the only way of winning these events as she and her running partner, Ros Blackmore, won the ladies team prize outright, and also picking up first Vet team prize. Out of 174 teams in the long score, they both finished 48th team. Phil Hodgeson and Darren Graham finished in 21st place overall and third Vet team and Kirsty Patten, running with John Allan finished in 42nd place and third Mix team. Ben Crowther spent the weekend showing his stand in partner Richard Quinn the delights of the OMM, as Richard had never done an event like this, and finished in 96th place. Helen and Dave Wilson once again showed their navigational skills by finishing in 98th place.
Over on the Medium Score (shorter time but by no way easier) saw Michelle Fuller and Dave Garner finish in 86th place and third Vets team out of 241 teams despite Michelle twisting her ankle.