For the British team, today’s Long Final was the best day so far of the European Championships writes Peter Hodkinson.

Yesterday’s qualification races were physically demanding and the ability to come out of the woods, shake it off and begin again with a positive attitude was crucial.

There were more solid GB results in the women’s race with Jess Tullie 28th, Jo Shepherd 31st and Kirsten Strain 45th who commented that her debut at the Europeans had been really fun. 

Hollie on the run-in

 In the Men’s race, Graham Gristwood’s love story with the long distance continued as he ran in style to an excellent 11th position. Despite battling with cramp and a bad blood blister towards the end, he made it to the finish safe and sound and was pleased to improve on his 16th position from EOC in Portugal two years ago. He reflected that, while it would have been nice to be inside the top 10, you can’t be in control of what other runners do. He is now really looking forward to the Relay at the end of the week.

Hector Haines enjoyed running head-to-head with 3-times world champion Matthias Kyburz and dropping him on the climbs on his way to 21st place. Ralph Street, who finished 28th, was pleased to reach the final control after a long and hard race, while Alan Cherry and Matt Speake finished close together in 37th and 39th respectively.

The team are taking a well-deserved rest day tomorrow before the action resumes with the Middle Qualification on Thursday.

Matt pushing hard

Hollie celebrates with British Orienteering Coach of the Year Liz Campbell