For 50 years orienteering in the United Kingdom has been developed, nurtured, promoted and led with passion and dedication by a succession of volunteer sports men and women. Between them, they have brought British Orienteers from small beginnings to the front of the world stage as well as spreading their sport throughout the country at every level and every age.
As a representative of his many colleagues and fellow visionaries over the 50 years and in recognition of his unflagging personal zeal and unstinting contribution to orienteering throughout that time, Chris James was awarded the British Orienteering 50th Anniversary Award at the prizegiving of the 2017 Scottish 6-Days event.
On behalf of British Orienteering in this 50th year, Judith Holt Chair of British Orienteering presented the award to Chris James on the prize-giving podium.
Judith Holt Chair of British Orienteering said: “I am honoured to be presenting this award to Chris who has contributed so much to the sport over so many years. It is particularly fitting that I am able to do so at this Scottish event because Chris's contribution includes being the first Scottish Orienteering Association fixtures secretary and also because of his legendary enthusiasm for Scottish Dancing.”
Chris James from North Gloucestershire Orienteering Club said:
“I am very honoured to be presented with this unique award. Of course, I am but one of the millions of people who have volunteered over the 50+ years. Whether a friend or family member giving up an hour or two or say the Co-ordinator of a major event such as this fantastic Scottish 6 Day so many have volunteered. British Orienteering must have one of the very best records of any organisation with so many of its members giving willingly of their time. My life changed in a big way when I met and joined Chris Brasher and John Disley in May 1965 in Surrey. My move to live and stay in Scotland in July 1967, just as the Federation had been formed, helped to draw everyone together thanks to the foresight of our 3rd Federation Chairman Bob Climie from Scotland. I look forward to continuing volunteering as the Federation moves into its 2nd half century. Hope to see you at the 100th anniversary!”
Photos supplied by Laurence Johnson Photography
Check out his Scottish 6 Day photos here
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