REAL world technology

What a weekend of sport it was. The British Grand Prix, Wimbledon, The Tour ... and for those of an orienteering persuasion - the Saunders ( more of this later).

And what price the technology?

First, The Grand Prix - the whole thing controlled from the pits by a sophisticated set of interrelated computer technologies from the heart rate of the drivers to the pressure in the tyres ... and to the television viewer ... real-time data.

Then Wimbledon, apart from the usual information sources, for the first time a real-time look at disputed line calls through 'hawk-eye'

Then Le Tour ... again real-time results, endless TV coverage from every angle

Lastly, the Saunders Two Day Mountain Marathon in the Lake District ... specially prepared 1:40,000 Map printed on waterproof paper, entries, start times, start and finish all done on the Internet. Electronic checking at the controls and rules that say 'The use of GPS or any Satellite Navigation devices are not permitted. Altimeters are allowed.' Results and splits available on the web site before the competitors have arrived home ... and that for an amateur event in a remote location.

It all may be 'small beer' to some but these are some of the things that make our leisure pleasurable and just could be one of the many reasons to involve all of our young people in the creative use of technology wherever they are and whatever they are doing.