Event Levels, Types and Formats
Local events are competitive but low key and in the 'localised' area, often on a Wednesday evening or a weekend morning. Try O events are local events tailored to anyone new to the sport, with coaches on hand for advice and tips. Open to all ages, abilities and fitness levels, learn to use a map and compass to navigate round short courses.
Training events are non-competitive and used for training and coaching. These are aimed at members of the club, but non-members and newcomers are also welcome. Social events are non-orienteering activities, with the annual highlight being our Awards Evening and ceilidh!
Regional events attract participants from around the local region, National events are high quality competitions that will attract people from far away, and Major events are large competitions such as a British Championships or the JK.
The important thing to remember about orienteering events is that, with the exception of a handful of really big events and some night events, all our orienteering events have courses suitable for everyone from young juniors and complete beginners to experienced orienteers. Many FVO events are accessible by public transport.
Event Formats
Normal (or Linear): There are a fixed number of controls to visit in a specific order.
Score: There are a number of controls, from which you select which ones and how many you will visit, you score points at each one. Sometimes different controls have a different number of points. There is usually a time limit and the winner is the one with most points in the shortest time.
Relay: A team (usually 3 people, but sometimes up to 11) run separate courses, one handing over to the other. The team's total time is what counts.
Event Terrain/Conditions
Forest: Any of the above formats, in forests, woodlands, parks, moors etc.
Urban: Any of the above formats, but on city/town streets.
Night: Any of the above, but in the dark!
Leagues and Competitions
Orienteering events can be organised into different leagues and competitions. Leagues and competitions can be competitions for clubs or individuals. Every year FVO hold three series of events on Wednesday evenings each with its own league to foster some friendly competition between members. These are: