What is a Street-O race?
A very informal urban orienteering race, where you are given a special map of the local area, with the aim of running around looking specific locations (“controls”) on the map, generally under street lights. It is a “score” event, which means you can find the controls in any order you like and pick your own route between them. You will also be given a clue sheet, which will ask a question for each control, which you will be able to complete when you find the correct location – e.g. “lamp post number” or “colour of door at number 20”.
Each control is assigned a point value – generally the ones further away are worth more points. The aim is to score as many points as possible, within the given time limit of 60 minutes. Try to keep within this limit, as you will be deducted points for every second you are late getting back! If you don’t want to be out for a full 60 minutes you can always come back earlier.
Where are the events held?
The street events are held at various locations around the Isle of Wight, and are normally based at a local pub.
You can turn up between 1800 and 1900, and start your run as soon as you’re ready. You’ll get your own map to run with (and keep afterwards) and if you need any help, there are plenty of experienced runners around to give you tips and advice before you run.
What does the map look like?
Normally an A4 sheet with streets shown on with black lines and paths shown as dotted lines – some maps use thicker brown lines for major roads. As with all orienteering maps, there are no street names on the map! The controls (there are typically up to 30) are normally printed on top in purple. To help distinguish which side of the road you need to be looking at, the control circles are shown with a dot in the middle. The start and finish is always at the same place and shown by a triangle.
Here is part of a street orienteering map of Shanklin as an example – showing the road and path network and the seafront. The controls on the map here have the extra “dot” in the middle showing the exact location of the feature:
What kit do I need?
The minimal equipment is running kit, a pen and a watch. To save you writing down the answers, you can instead record your visits to controls with GPS using the MapRun phone app (android | ios) and optionally the MapRunG Garmin IQ Connect App which will allow you to run without carrying your phone. A headtorch is not essential as most areas are streetlit, however you may prefer to use one for darker parts or to make map-reading easier. A compass is not required!
We use electronic timing to time your run and you will be given a plastic block to register your start and finish time.
Will I be safe?
We try to use areas that are reasonably well lit and openly accessible. However, you are still responsible for your own safety. Many people compete individually, although you can choose to run in groups if you prefer!
What about the social?
After the race, stay around in the pub for some food, drink and post-race analysis of routes – fun but of course optional!
What is the cost?
£3 for WightO or British Orienteering members, £3 for under-21s, £5 for others.
Who can take part?
Everyone is welcome. You can race, run or walk as you wish. As these are relatively low key local events, the races are particularly suitable for people who have never tried orienteering before, and are an excellent opportunity to meet club members and find out more.
Are you interested?
If you would like to take part, further details will go up on the website a few weeks before each race.
If you have any questions please contact info@wighto.org.uk