Lochaber orienteering gets back on track
Moves are afoot to put a once popular local sport back on the map, with the reformation of Lochaber Orienteering Club, writes Fiona Scott.
Working with ‘Loch Eck Orienteers’ (EckO) in Oban, Glencoe man Chris Vind is hoping to revive interest in this region, using the expertise of the active group to become a satellite organisation, and pioneering new routes in different areas of Lochaber.
Orienteering involves setting off from a start point with a map and special compass to follow directions along a set route to various waypoints where the participant checks in to record their arrival before setting off to find the next one on the map.
Various types of route can be set depending on the skill of participants from what would be considered relatively short walks to more complex trails and timed courses where speed and accuracy are the aim. All usually start and end at the same point.
Speaking about the new venture, Chris said: ‘It’s not all about running and you certainly don’t have to be an athlete to take part or enjoy it, unless that is what you want to get out of it.
‘Many courses can be enjoyed by individuals just walking or indeed as a family event, with everyone helping to follow the directions to the check-in points on the route. It can be great fun and a great time out in the open air.’
As with most things these days, logging arrival at a check point is done electronically with a ‘dibber’ which is inserted into a hole on the station, recording when this was done. The recording also makes sure that the participant has followed the course in the right order and, if timing is important, how long each stage has taken.
Maps are specially produced to show the routes and reference points with a key of various icons which show how to identify the specific station you are at. They are also waterproof so that they can be followed regardless of weather.
At the moment the only routes in Lochaber are around Glencoe Lochan and Kinlochleven, but with funds left over from the previous club it is hoped to research, create and print more routes in other locations. It is planned to stage the first event on Sunday April 10 at Glencoe Lochan, starting at 11am when it is also hoped to gauge just how much interest there is to restart club activities on a monthly basis.
Until then Chris is happy to hear from anyone who wants to find out more and is also offering to demonstrate just what is involved. Email him on c.vind@btinternet.com.