Event Notice
Consult the event notice a couple of weeks before the event. It will contain all the information you need including directions to the event, cost of entry, as well as registration and start times.
Clothing
There are no clothing restrictions in South Africa. It is recommended, however, that clothing should cover the body from neck to feet. ‘Gaiters’ or ‘bramble bashers’, made of a strong nylon fabric to protect the lower legs, are often worn by more experienced orienteers. Old running shoes or sturdy walking shoes are advisable. Keep in mind that the average orienteer does not emerge from the course in pristine condition.
Equipment
Although not essential for beginners on easy courses, the use of an orienteering compass is advisable. It is recommended that orienteers carry whistles for emergency use in some areas.
Registration
Novices should ask for guidance when first entering an event. Appointed officials will be on hand to assist you with the formalities, which will vary depending on the nature of the event. You will need to select a course that suits your physical and technical orienteering abilities. Entry to most of our events is pre-entry online and entries close on the Wednesday or Thursday prior to the event.
The Map
You get your map only when you start. Check the scale of the map and the contour interval. Note which direction on the map is north (usually the top of the map) and try to locate yourself accordingly. Study the ‘legend’ or ‘key’.
Proof of reaching each control point
At registration you will be given an electronic timing unit. This records your time at each point of the course to ensure you visited all controls in the correct order. In some non-club events, the manual punch system may be used.
Control Descriptions
These describe each control point, including the code on each marker. There may be more than one control in an area you have to visit. Study the sheet and make sure you fully understand the symbols and terminology. The descriptions are usually issued in both English and symbols on the easier courses.
Start
Arrive at the start 10 to 15 minutes early so you can observe and understand the starting procedure. At your start time, place the timing unit in the start unit, pick up your map and proceed.
Controls
Locate all the controls on your course in the required order. Remember to verify the control codes at each point, as each control point has a unique code and punch pattern. Remember to place your timing unit in or on the control unit, as evidence that you have been to that point, before navigating to the next control.
Finish
Once you have found your last control, navigate or follow the streamers to the finish. Your time will be taken as you punch the finish control. Hand in your timing unit irrespective of whether you have completed the course fully or not. We need to check that all competitors are safely back at the end of the event,
Results
The data on the timing unit will then be downloaded into the computer which will check that you correctly completed the course. You will also be given a printout that shows your times between each control.
Analysis
Analyse your performance, think about your mistakes and compare notes with other orienteers on your course. Try to ascertain where you can improve your orienteering. Two websites that can help you are AttackPoint and SPORTident depending on which site is used by the organising club.