With just shy of three years since the last OACT training camp it meant that many new and developing orienteers were keen to learn.
Three years is a long time!
Based on a new map, with plenty of point and line features and at least half a dozen log bridges the OACT Pre-Christmas Training Camp had plenty to offer. Armchair, technical, and physical sessions all on the menu. Lead by three capable orienteering coaches, camp sessions included skills/drills (compass habits), fitness and focus (route choice long distance contour only), mental and psychological (improving your memory), night navigation, simplification and relocation skills.
Rob’s cool compass routine especially the double handed lift and line-up, is sure to pay off. On a contour only map in some wild and rough terrain, Marina demonstrated her desire to maintain top form, taking on 9.5km, with some serious hill climbs, over two hours. Ruth demonstrated balance and bravery on the log bridges, while Sally proved that even with a tumble or two in the dark, that good map memory and maintaining contact seriously reaps rewards!
The camp offered something for everyone. The memory training session provided plenty of self-reflection-who will ever forget the juicy violet apple jumping between fridge shelves! The simplification exercises had the maps deconstructed, while the night session kept everyone on their toes.
Still, there was plenty of time for fun – shared meals and shared tips (elastic band shoelace wraps), slack line sessions, hound dog hugs and bingO.
Check out more pictures on Facebook.
A huge thanks to the top coaches for sharing valuable skills this weekend, and to all camp participants for such focused efforts. With so many great local events throughout the summer (Summer Shorts, TrakOTack, Map Run Street Series, Runners Shop Twilight Series ) there’s plenty of opportunity to practice learned skills.
More training is coming up in February with Orienteering Training for Boys and Women’s and Girls Sessions – five sessions Thurs/Fri Feb 2/3 and Thurs/Fri Feb 9/10 (incl night session).
Planning for the next training camp pre-Easter is underway – anticipate March 2023.
