Introduction to Orienteering April 4, 2009

Orienteering is the sport of navigating through an unfamiliar area using a map. It has been popular in Europe for many years and is just starting to be popular here in the US. Over 20 Chicago-area orienteering events are held each year in beautiful natural areas of forests preserves and parks.

At its most competitive it is a running sport that offers a lot to the athlete who likes to think as well as run. The sport offers a mental challenge to all ages and all athletic abilities. Whether you are a runner or just enjoy a pleasant hike, orienteering offers something for everybody.

The Introduction to Orienteering Class is taught by members of the Chicago Area Orienteering Club (www.chicago-orienteering.org) and requires no prior experience and will cover the following topics:

- The sport of Orienteering
- Orienteering in Chicago and around the world
- Orienteering races and course types
- Using a compass
- Orienteering maps
- Map reading
- Using a clue sheet
- Route selection
- Training, clothing and equipment

If you have your own compass, bring it along, but no equipment is required for the clinic.

Official Website: www.rei.com/schaumburg