Name: Barbara Davidson
Age Class: W70
What other orienteering clubs do you belong to or have you previously belonged to?
None. Many years ago I was a member of Stockport Harriers but never competed
just went running with the other wives.
When did you start orienteering and how?
Bill introduced me to the sport around 1993 by doing a few low key events in the New Forest before trying to lose me in the Goyt Valley on my first badge event.
How often do you go orienteering?
Until recently 2 to 3 times a month but much less at the moment, hoping to do more this year.
What do you enjoy about orienteering?
Finding the first control is always a good feeling. Visiting different areas around the country and comparing routes and results afterwards.
What is your favourite SOC area and why?
Any area in the New Forest that has a good mix of woodland and open heathland.
What is your favourite orienteering discipline/distance and why?
I like running against my own age class in normal cross country events.
Car parking or controlling? What's your favourite orienteering volunteering?
Gathering controls on a nice sunny afternoon, they always seem easier to find and the Forest seems nice and quiet.
What is the high point of your orienteering career so far?
I did once beat Jenny Thompson on one leg on a course – does this count? But I did once come 3 rd in a French Championship event, I don’t think the French ladies of a certain age take orienteering so seriously, as there were a lot of shouts of ‘ici’, as I neared the controls.
What other countries have you orienteered in?
France and Ireland.
What training do you do?
Used to go running but now need all my energy for the events.
What one piece of advice would you give other orienteers?
Concentrate on your own route and don’t be influenced by others.
What keeps you busy when you're not orienteering?
Golf, walking, cycling and Grandchildren.
What book are you currently reading?
Once upon a River by Diane Setterfield.
Anything else you'd like to share with your clubmates?
Don’t be afraid to offer to volunteer as it’s a great way to learn more about the sport and meet other club members.
