Anna Sheldon on her way to winning
the Australian Middle Distance championships.

Anna Sheldon now holds both the Australian Long and Middle Distance titles, after winning today’s race in Pewsey Vale. The women’s race was both a technical and tight affair, with the top three separated by only 30 seconds. Grace Elson (Tas, 3rd place) led early in the race, but a three minute mistake at the eigth control cost her the race. The tough final loop saw the lead switch between Elson, Sheldon and  Kathryn Ewels (Vic, 4th), but Sheldon was the one to hold her nerve and take the win. Tracy Bluett (NSW) finished 2nd.

Matt Crane (GBR)

The men’s field was depleted by the departure of David Shepherd, Julian Dent and Troy de Haas for the start of the European season, and visiting British orienteer Matt Crane dominated. Simon Uppill (SA) was second, two minutes behind Crane, with Kerrin Rattray (SA) showing glimpses of his 2006 form to take  third place.

Morten Neve (Vic) took the men’s junior title from Tristan Lee, while Bridget Anderson (Qld) beat Belinda Lawford (Vic) for the W17-20E title.

Full results and splits now available.