Scottish Schools Festival 2019 Report
Some 350 children from upper primary age to the upper age in secondary schools poured into Hopetoun House Gardens near South Queensferry on Friday 7th June 2019 for the 2019 Scottish Schools Festival.
On a bright sunny day youngsters were soon running round the courses set by Katy Lessels from ESOC. A range of orienteering clubs were there to support the efforts of the organisers along with activities provided by the Scottish Orienteering Development Team.
It was fabulous to see schools from across the width and breadth of the country represented on the podium from Inverness to Dumfries, Edinburgh to Oban. Regular orienteering names featured in the winning numbers as well as – importantly – young people who are relative newcomers.
There was a lot of support from primary age schools with less participating at the senior end – perhaps due to a combination of clashes with exams and other pressures for that age group.
The carnival atmosphere, combined with good weather, made for a great event. Well done to the organisers for enthusing so many young people and we hope many will return to try the sport again in the future!
Results are available now at https://www.ssoa.org.uk/results/2019/
