The Canberra Cockatoos sealed victory in both the mens and womens divisions of the Silva National Orienteering League after today’s Australian Long Distance Championships.

The Cockatoos have dominated the women’s competition and their team of Jo Allison, Shannon Jones and Mace Neve  gained full points today to hold an unassailable lead of 28 points over the Victorian Nuggets. The National Title itself was claimed in convincing fashion by former World Champion Hanny Allston, who has shown that her break from the sport over the first half of 2008 has not harmed her form. Kathryn Ewels capped off a fantastic year to place 2nd, with stalwart Jo Allison in 3rd.

The men’s divison of the Silva National Orienteering League has been a closer race. While the Cockatoos have held a narrow lead over the Southern Arrow for much of the season, injury to David Shepherd meant that the Cockatoos failed to field a full team today. But the Arrows were unable to capitalise despite Simon Uppill’s 5 minute victory, only picking up 2 points on the Cockatoos. Rob Walter was placed 2nd, while veteran Craig Dufty just keeps getting better with age – placing 3rd in the best result of his career.

Full results and splits.

The Silva National Orienteering League concludes with today’s Australian Relay Championships.