FAQ – Rogaining & Orienteering

Rogaining section contributed by Mark Stiebel, with minor additions by Roger Caffin and Chris Solnordal
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Principles of Rogaining

Simply, rogaining can be described as competitive bushwalking with scoring. The rogaine is done in teams of between two and six people, with each team using their navigational skills to score by reaching marked checkpoints. At the start of an event all teams are given a topo map of the area with checkpoints either marked or as a list of grid references, plus a sheet describing the checkpoint feature. In Australia rogaining dates back to 1947, with the first Melbourne University Mountaineering Club 24 Hour Walk.

Unlike orienteering, there is no set order for reaching checkpoints. Some checkpoints may be worth more points than others: for example 20 points for one at a track intersection but 60 points for one further away or up a steep spur. It is up to each team to determine the checkpoints they aim to reach and the route they wish to take to get to those checkpoints. Three standard rogaining event lengths are 6hr, 12hr, and 24hr. For a six hour event, one can expect to have to cover between 15km and 30km or more to be competitive. Distances of over 100km are typically covered by a winning team in the 24 hr version, but Monday was painful [RNC].

Equipment

As with bushwalking, equipment needs differ greatly on what type of rogaine you will be doing, as well as what you intend to achieve. This can range from a relaxing six hour stroll through the forest through to a rugged twenty-four hike with minimal breaks for the entire duration.

The essentials for any rogaine are very similar to those of any bushwalk:

- Clothing - Good walking boots or shoes. Clothing is obviously dependant on the weather, but keep in mind that even though a rogaine is shorter in duration than most bushwalks, weather can still change for better or for worse within a couple of hours. Be prepared.

- Pack - A comfortable pack which is the correct size for the amount of gear you need to carry.

- Navigation aids - The map will be supplied on the day. You will need to supply your own compass (although some rogaining associations provide compasses on the day for a small hire fee plus a deposit). GPS units are not allowed.

- Food - A 'Hash House' will provide fresh food throughout the event, and a fully catered meal after the event. However high energy snacks should be carried, as you may not find yourself near the hash house for a lunch break. Sufficient water must also be carried, but there are usually a number of waterdrops on the course (marked on the map) if there is no suitable natural water source available.

- First Aid - At least one first aid kit must be carried per team, and each person must carry a whistle in case of emergency.

- Miscellaneous - Torch, especially for 12hr or 24hr events. Highlighter and pencil for marking maps and checkpoints. Watch: you will be penalised for finishing the event late.

Safety of competitors has always been a requirement. This is meant to be fun, after all.

LINKS

More information and links to clubs in your state can be found at http://rogaine.asn.au/ara/oz_clubs.html.

© Mark Stiebel 7/7/2002
© Roger Caffin 7/7/2002
© Chris Solnordal 18/11/2003