November Map(s) of the Month
Get ready for a double-feature of orienteering this November! We’re offering two distinct trainings: a technical forest adventure in Blackford and some Sprintervals in Leith. Choose your challenge, or be ambitious and tackle both!
Forest Training: Blackford Hill
Location: Start/Finish at w3w ///slave.metro.record
Put your navigation skills to the test at Blackford Hill. We have two courses designed to challenge orienteers of all levels. Tapes will be in place from November 5th until the end of the month.
Courses Available:
- Multi-Technique (5.7 km): Advanced
o The clue is in the name! This course is designed to test a full range of skills, including contours, route-choice, and compass.
o Important: The map features “corridors” and “windows” (sections of the map will be blanked out). If you are new to this format, we strongly recommend printing a spare, full-map (like the Orange course map) to use as a backup.
o The course includes various cut-offs to shorten your run if needed. - Orange (2.1 km): Intermediate (TD3)
o A classic orange-standard course. The entire map is visible—perfect for building confidence or enjoying a scenic run.
Forest Safety Notes:
- Steep Cliffs: The area contains steep cliffs. Please be extremely aware of your surroundings and stick to paths where appropriate.
- Respect Others: This is a shared public space. Please be courteous to all park users.
- Missing Tapes? If you find any control markers missing, please message Michael directly so they can be replaced.
Sprint Training: Leith
Location: Start/Finish at w3w ///builds.expand.tasty (end of Leith Walk)
Swap the trails for the terraces! This is a map-and-compass sprint challenge through the lovely coastal area of Leith.
Courses Available:
- Sprintervals (6.3km)
o The are 4 different courses of about 1.5km each. The aim is to run with a group of people of similar ability. You run each course fairly hard then take a recovery before tackling the next course.
o Important: There are NO physical tapes or markers on this course. You must navigate using the map and descriptions alone.
o Artificial Barriers: These are shown on the map and MUST NOT BE CROSSED. This is to make the courses more interesting and enhance route-choice.
Sprint Safety Notes:
- Public Space: This is a very busy area. Be extra cautious at blind corners, slow down at junctions, and always give way to members of the public.
- Urban Hazards: Be aware of traffic, cyclists, and stairs.
General Information & How to Take Part
- Maps: Maps for both trainings will be available on the EUOC website and WhatsApp group.
- The Blackford map is single-sided for both courses. The Leith courses are split with 2 maps on 2 A4 pages for a total of 4 maps.
- Printed Maps: If you need a physical map printed, please contact Michael and he can arrange this for you.
- Timing: These are informal, month-long trainings. Run the courses at your own convenience throughout November. There will be a designated day to run these together- keep an eye out on the WhatsApp.
The maps are ready, the courses are set… now it’s up to you! Go out, explore, and have a fantastic time.
Happy Orienteering!
Michael Bishenden (+44 7464474270)
Maps:
Blackford:
Leith: