The aim is to navigate in sequence between control points marked on a unique orienteering map and decide the best route to complete the course in the quickest time. It does not matter how young, old or fit you are, as you can run, walk or jog the course and progress at your own pace.
Orienteering can take place anywhere from remote forest and countryside to urban parks and school playgrounds. It's a great sport for runners, joggers and walkers who want to improve their navigation skills or for anyone who loves the outdoors. Orienteering - The adventure sport for all.
British Orienteering is seeking to develop more orienteering activities at a local level and have developed a 'Community Orienteering' Programme. Our Regional Development Plan has further details about Community Orienteering as well as other areas of focus.
'Community Orienteering' or 'Community O' provides weekly training and activities from a fixed location that will allow for skill development at a social and motivating level for people of all ages and abilities. Community O also includes local events and competitions that can provide a stepping stone into mainstream orienteering events. The weekly 'Club Nights' are aimed at attracting a broad range of participants from a wide demographic. The nights are accessible to all but are particular popular with family groups. We are also fortunate that orienteering is taught in 60% of schools and the 'Club Nights' provide a perfect environment to progress from school orienteering to events.
Over 50% of English clubs are now engaged in the 'Community O' programme and are providing more local, accessible orienteering opportunities in community settings such as parks and school grounds.
New sessions starting in Barrow on Monday 17th September - see poster to the right
Local fixtures happen on a regular basis and are organised by clubs across the county:
West Cumberland Orienteering Club (WCOC)
Lakeland Orienteering Club (LOC)
Warrior Orienteering Club (WAROC)
Community Orienteering leaflet
There are 9 opportunities listed on the Physical Activity Directory. To view local opportunities please select your local area.
Dates for your Diary - British Championships - 4th May
World Junior Championships - 21st July
Steve Vernon
National Participation Manager,
British Orienteering
M: 07891091613
Community Orienteering Coach (North),
British Orienteering
M:07967 318501
Adventure Sport for All (pdf, 317KB)
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