A standard orienteering course consists of a start, a series of control sites that are connected by lines and numbered in the order they are to be visited, and a finish.
Participants will be given a map with the control sites clearly circled and must find these in the correct sequence. Each control site will be marked by a brightly colored flag or a plaque. Participants have to punch their card or collect a code to prove that they have visited this control site. It is important that participants keep their maps correctly orientated at all stage and align it with the features around them. The aim is to complete the course as quickly as possible. This is something that can be completed in a team or individually.
Our permanent courses and downloadable maps are very easy to use and are suitable for everybody. There is are also ‘Wheelo’ courses in Kilbarry Nature Park and the People’s Park in Waterford City. It is also very simple to create your own course.
Please note you can take a loan of kites, punches and control cards from our office at the Regional Sports Centre in Waterford. However, before you begin, please ensure that participants are aware of how to orientate and align the map. All you need to do is turn the map until what is in front of you in the terrain is in front of you on the map.
If you wish to use one of our permanent courses:
- Download the map from the website.
- Find the control sites in the correct order and complete the codes at the side of the map to demonstrate that you have fully completed the course.
- This can be completed as a timed event if you so wish.
If you wish to create your own course:
- Download the master map of the area ALL MAPS
- Decide on the course and sequence of control points. You can then draw this map in, using a pen and a ruler. Place a circle around the checkpoints and link the points to one another to indicate the course that is to be followed.
- If you have kites and punches available, these can be placed at the checkpoints. Participants can then be given a control card to punch, as they find each control site. Alternatively, if you do not have access to control cards and punches, you can place an object or you own sequence of letter/ numbers for participants to find.
For more information please contact Liz McEnaney lmcenaney@waterfordsportspartnership.ie
Article Modified: May 09, 2023 9:44 am
