SKI ORIENTEERING

SKI ORIENTEERING

Organized by the Ottawa Orienteering Club

In case of bad weather or unsafe trail conditions the meet may be cancelled. Check this site for confirmation before setting out. Any notice will be posted by 8:30 the day of the meet.

WHO: For all X/C skiers who love a challenge or just want to get out on some different trails. There will be three different courses: Short and easy (~3-5K), Medium (~5-7K), and Long (~7-10K) Instruction will be available for beginners. Do it for fun or try to be the fastest to find all the controls and score points toward the series total.

SCORING for the series will be as follows:

Categories: Male and Female on each course – so six different categories

Event Points: in each category, 1st place gets 10 points; 2nd place gets 9 points, down to 1 point for 10th place

Series Score: Every race counts – the more races you go in, the more points you get, but they need to be in the same category!

Awards: Not sure yet, but stay tuned!

WHAT: It's orienteering on skis with a "blank" trail map. No trail numbers or other signage to confuse you. Look at the sample map on the left. How would you go to control #1 (flag # 66)? Are you sure that's the best way? Trails of all types are used - not just the well-groomed ones. If I told you that only 60% of the trails to be used are groomed for skating - what ski technique would you use? How much do you like to double-pole? : ) The quality of the trail is indicated by the symbol used. Shortcuts are allowed.

EQUIPMENT: You will receive the course map in a plastic case, a waterproof punch card, and some safety pins to attach them to your chest/arm. Trying to ski/navigate with a pole and a map in your hand is very awkward. Bring a compass that you can attach to your wrist. We have some for rent if you do not have your own. If you plan to go out on one of the longer courses please carry a water bottle. There will be water and other refreshments at the start/finish.

If you would like to make a map holder try this.

OR you can purchase a competition style map holder from the

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We will collect the fees at the site registration desk and ask you to sign a waiver. For Gatineau Park, pay your trail fees at the parking lot kiosks. For other meets, trail fees (in addition to meet fees) may be charged at registration. Be sure to check your email if you subscribe to our Yahoo list Sunday morning if weather causes any possibilities of cancellation. Last minute notices will also be posted on this web site.