O-MEET race 8:00:00 [4] ***
spiked:28/slept:7.0 shoes: Salomon Spikecross
The Mad Otter, Not sure how I did points wise but I was happy with the meet, I only really messed up one control. Early on, I thought I would try cutting cross country around a hill mass knowing there was a low cliff on the other side I thought there would be a place to climb up. the cliff was taller than I remembered and by the time I found a way around I was out of the map and took a while to recover.
After that it was a matter of following the trails and find the controls on leg 1, Leg 2 was a little more complex from a navigation standpoint, controls were not right on the trail and took a little off trail travel but the controls were well placed.
I wound up taking too much time on the first two legs so I was left with not as much time for the Rogaine which is a shame because I really like that style of event. These controls were a mix of easy to find, low value controls, and harder to find, higher value controls. I like that, adds more strategy to the event.
At first I felt like this might be too complex as an event, but the more I think about it. the more I like it. It is complex but Orienteering/Adventure racing is a complex, thinking sport. a complex race gives more options to someone who is an excellent navigator and I think can level the playing field in some respect versus a more athletic, but less game savvy opponent.
It also adds the whole strategic choices aspect like in game theory. A good thing to experience.
Next year it will be 12 hours! I am looking forward to it!
One last note, The key to wearing spike shoes so they don't hurt your feet when running on hard surfaces is thick wool socks. They work even when wet. Feet help just fine no issues. Need to work on my running off road, both on and off trail. Must avoid rocks at all costs with the spiked shoes.