DESCRIPTION:
Orienteering is a running/walking sport involving navigation with a map and compass. The traditional form (sometimes referred to as "Foot Orienteering" or "Foot-O") involves cross-country running/walking, though other forms have evolved. The competition is a timed race in which individual participants use a special purpose map and a magnetic compass to navigate through diverse terrain (often wooded) and visit, in sequence, control points that are indicated on the map. The course of control points is kept a secret from competitors before the start, when they are provided with a detailed topographic map on which the course is marked. Competitors start at staggered intervals, are individually timed, and are expected to perform all navigation skills on their own. Standings are determined first by successful completion of the course, then by shortest time on course. Rules and principles of the sport are defined by the International Orienteering Federation.
* Source found at Wikipedia
MANDATORY EQUIPMENT:
Compass (if you do not have one we will have rentals day of event), Map (Endurance Sports provided), Passport (Endurance Sports Provided, Cell phone (may be carried by parent or guardian), Whistle, Hat, Gloves or Mittens, Boots, Pen or Pencil.
RULES:
Parent or guardian may accompany athletes under 18 on the O-Course. The parent or guardian may only assist to ensure the athlete does not become lost or injured. The athlete must be in possession of the map and compass at all times. An athlete assisting other athletes is completely acceptable. Parents and guardians you are there to keep an eye on the athlete not an eye out for control markers. Some areas may be considered off limits to athletes, anyone found violating off limits areas will be disqualified.
AGE DIVISIONS:
7 & under, 8-11 years old, 12-15, 16-18.
SCORING SYSTEM:
At registration/Check-in, each athlete will receive a topo map, clue sheet and passport. You will use your map and compass to locate as many control markers as possible. Once located you will use the punch located at each Control marker to punch your passport. The athlete who achieves the most control markers (See picture) in the shortest amount of time wins. Athletes will have three hours to achieve as many CP’s as possible, the more CP’s achieved the higher you will rank. Example; If I achieve 5 CP’s in 2 hours and you achieve 6 CP’s in 2:30:00 hours your ranking will be higher than mine. CP’s first time second. To be considered official you must achieve a minimum of 3 CP’s the remainder will be optional. CP’s may be achieved in any order. Remember; the more CP’s achieved the higher you will rank. Time stops when I receive your passport. Anyone returning after the three hour cut off will be considered Unofficial.
AWARDS:
Awards will be given to the top age group winner in each age group as well as overall award.
RESULTS:
Will be posted on www.endurancesports.biz
ENTRY FEE:
$15 With t-shirt, $30 cool hooded sweat shirt.
DISTANCES:
Distances will vary depending on route choices.
MAIL:
Advance registration by mail is encouraged.
Send registration and entry fee to:
WINTERSPORTSFEST – 2008
Endurance Sports L.L.C.
1821 Duchess Ct.
Muskegon, MI 49445
