It wasn’t only the fantastic organising team and volunteers doing Scotland proud at the World Orienteering Championships (WOC) this year, we had several home athletes for the crowds to cheer on as well.
Grace Molloy (Forth Valley Orienteers) was the star of the show, demonstrating that 2 winters out in the US on a track scholarship have moved her on to the next level physically. As audiences in Edinburgh and watching at home on TV could see, she was able to mix it with the best in the world, and came away with a fantastic 6th place in the individual Sprint race. She also ran a great first leg in the GB Sprint Relay team, changing over in 2nd place (the team went on to finish 7th), and made it to the Quarterfinals of the Knock Out Sprint. She had this to say about the experience – “It was special having a home WOC, especially one as close to home as Edinburgh. I was delighted to finish 6th in the Sprint after a fantastic course through the old town. The results in the other races were a bit disappointing but I was happy with my races and the whole week was an incredible experience. Thanks to everyone who made it happen!”
Collectively everyone involved created something really special in terms of WOC 2024 and WOC Tour. Many competitors in WOC Tour and the teams from all over the world taking part in WOC 2024 have given us really positive feedback, “Best Ever” being a common theme. Even those who didn’t visit but watched from afar commented on how brilliant the TV coverage was.
The work put in by everyone was outstanding and we can be really proud of what we achieved together. This was not just the work that took place during the two events but the immense amount of hard work for years beforehand. And it could not have gone ahead without funding from EventScotland, The City of Edinburgh Council, British Orienteering Federation and of course SOA and Scottish 6 Days on behalf of Scottish Orienteering Members. All that hard work turned a creative vision into a beautiful reality.
Thanks to you all on behalf of the Boards of the Scottish Orienteering Association and the Scottish Orienteering 6 Day Event Company
We are delighted to announce that Andy Mitchelmore has been appointed as the new Event Director for WOC 2024.
“I’m excited to take on the Event Director role for WOC 2024 and to be working with key stakeholders and the passionate and knowledgeable members of the Orienteering community to deliver another world-class event in Scotland.
Having held strategic and operational roles in the planning and delivery of major sporting events within the UK, Ireland and the Middle East for more than 20 years; I have successfully worked with National and International Federations from a range of sports, broadcasters, funding partners and sponsors.
As an Edinburgh resident for most of my life, I am proud to have previously led the delivery of major elite and mass participation sporting events in my home city. I am looking forward to continuing my relationships with City of Edinburgh Council, Historic Environment Scotland and EventScotland, and engaging trusted local suppliers to ensure the success of WOC 2024 in the Scottish Capital.”
For those who attended the Club Conference on 15th April, a short summary of the data gathered and project proposal for Making the Most of WOC 2024 was provided to aid discussions on the day. The SOA Board are however aware that for most members they may have engaged with the data gathering carried out but have not had the opportunity to hear more about the results and the proposal. To that end, as previously indicated there will be a community conversation taking place on Monday 8th May at 7pm online providing a summary of the work carried out by Baroudeur and allow a discussion on the data gathered.
