The weather was brisk, but not nearly as bitter as initially predicted, and it proved to be of little deterrence to the orienteering faithful. A veritable throng of eager competitors had assembled in the somewhat inadequate parking facilities even before the 10 AM start time. The event attracted competitors from western MA, RI, NH, CT, VT, PA and even Austria. (OK, the PA participant was my brother, but the others were not coerced.) Ultimately, 115 groups or individuals competed (some more than once), spread out rather evenly over the various course offerings.

There was evidence of several significant family rivalries, especially on the Yellow course where Kasey Kirshner edged out Scott & Leslie by 3 seconds. However, family bragging rights belonged to Doug Kirschner, who won the Yellow competition. Richard Blom placed first on the Red course after successfully navigating the supposedly impassable marsh guarding the last control. This control placement proved daunting to at least a few competitors on the Red and Green courses, but apparently not to an unidentified souvenir hunter who located the spot prior to control pick-up the next morning. Rest in peace, Control #150.

I would like to especially thank Donn Springer and Kathy MdArdle for their invaluable knowledge and assistance, Joanne Sankus for serving in the unanticipated but vital role of parking lot supervisor, Steve van Ness and Joanne (again) for their efforts in picking up the controls, and Jeff Saeger and Donn (again) for their reviews of my proposed courses. And once again I would like to express my extreme gratitude for the dedicated efforts and support of my mother, father and sister, without whom I would have been hard pressed to overcome to delays occasioned by the failure of Hale Reservation to open its gates on schedule.

I look forward to seeing you all again next year, when I hope to reintroduce the Halloween theme that previously highlighted the Fall Powissett event. As before, I remain eager for any advice, criticism, or offers of assistance to aid me in planning for next year's event. Comments should be directed to Jeff Schapiro.