The charmingly picturesque Araluen botanic park is the setting for our next Sprint event. Newly mapped in 2023, the area provides some interesting challenges to runners both navigationally and physically. The many pathways mean that there is a need to be constantly in touch with your location, and route choice will be vital in avoiding extra climb in this hillier-than-usual sprint map.
This is an Australian Schools Orienteering Championship selection event - for details see the ASOC trials info document.
Sprint events feature short courses (2–3.5 kms), usually held in a small, compact area with complex features, such as the buildings and passages of a university campus. The event is suited for all fitness and experience levels - our instructors will be on hand if you are new to sprint orienteering. More information about Sprint events can be found on the OWA website, including Sprint event guide, sprint orienteering tips and a sample sprint map.
Sprint event maps contain features which must not be crossed or entered, even if it is possible to do so. Some out-of-bounds areas are more obvious (e.g. garden beds) but some do not have physical boundaries (e.g. around cafes) so read your map carefully! Check out a sample legend with uncrossable features for sprint events, and make sure to check the legend on your map at each event!
Courses: Easy, Short Hard and Long Hard.
Registration: Pre-entry (preferred) is available via Eventor until 5pm on Saturday April 25th. You will also be able to enter on the day at the event, from 10:00 - 11:30am.
Start Times: From 10:30am to 12 noon. Note slightly later than usual start.
Courses Close: 13:00pm. You need to return to the assembly area by this time, whether or not you complete the course.
Facilities: Toilets, water taps, picnic areas, cafes.
Parking: Please see instructions on Eventor.
Please bring: Your SI card (SI Air will be available) and compass or these can be borrowed at the event. Also bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a whistle, a hat and water bottle (plus water and electrolytes for after you finish), and comfortable walking or running shoes.
Directions to the event are in Eventor along with additional information.
Park entry fee (with discount!) can be added to your entry on Eventor. Otherwise you can pay at the gate, but this will take longer - pre-entry is highly recommended. See Eventor for details.
After your run, you will be welcome to picnic and explore the grounds and paths for the rest of the day, or enjoy the onsite cafes. For more information about the Botanic Park, see Araluen website.
Photo: Assembly area at Araluen, by Helen Post.
Ngalak kaaditj nidja Noongar Boodjar. Koora-Yeyi-Kalyakool.