THE GARDNER family were in fine form to scoop a hat-trick of first place prizes in Octavian Droobers’ latest event in the surrounding area to Linford Wood in Milton Keynes.
Droobers took part in all three courses at the event hosted by South Midlands Orienteering Club, with Great Britain orienteer William Gardner (M21) getting proceedings underway by winning the long 6.6km race.
After finding his way to all 24 control points in a time of 31:35, he finished over six minutes faster than second-placed Scott Collier (M21).
Also completing the course were fellow Droobers, Barry Elkington (M60) in sixth with a 41:31 time, and Sophie Kirk (W21) – the fastest female runner in 47:20.
William’s father, Richard Gardner (M65), then completed the 4.8km course in 34 minutes, narrowly beating Bruce Bryant (M60, 34:45) to the win. Liz Phillips (W55) also took part, taking seventh place in 40:08.
On the short 3.1km course, Sian Gardner completed the family’s fortunes by finishing two seconds faster than Milly Askham (W16), despite her years, in a 33:39 time.
Hilary May (W65) then completed the round-up of results for the Droobers, coming sixth in 45:23.
Future events can be found at www.britishorienteering.org.uk/event, with more information on joining the club at www.octavian-droobers.org, or by calling 01926 632189.
