The Queensland MTBO Championships last weekend offered a fantastic mix of terrains and challenges for mountain bike orienteers from across the country. Held at the picturesque Beerburrum East State Forest and Coolum on the Sunshine Coast, the event featured three disciplines: Sprint, Middle, and Long Distance races. The courses, meticulously planned, showcased the diverse landscapes of the region, from urban settings to undulating fire trails amidst exotic pine forests, providing competitors with a range of physical tests. The event saw fierce competition with the Sunshine Coast living up to its name with excellent weather throughout the weekend.
A small but determined contingent from NSW made the trip up to Queensland, and their efforts were well rewarded. Robert Lewin, Andrew Power from Newcastle Orienteering Club, Michael Halmy from Bennelong Orienteers, and Ori Gudes from Uringa Orienteers all showcased their skills.
Place Getters: Andrew Power (NC) delivered a standout performance, clinching a solid win in the Sprint race for the M60 category. Ori Gudes (UR) had an outstanding weekend, securing victories in both the Middle and Long-Distance races (a first-time achievement in Queensland for him) and earning a silver medal in the Sprint.
