Date: 16/09/2008
People of all ages, abilities and fitness levels are being urged to put their best foot forward and learn more about the challenging outdoor sport of orienteering at a forthcoming 'taster' day in Buxton.
Everyone is welcome - from individuals to families and novices to experienced orienteers - at the event, which will be held in the Pavilion Gardens on Saturday September 27 from 11am to 3.30pm.
High Peak Borough Council is working in partnership with British Orienteering and Derwent Valley Orienteers to develop a satellite orienteering club in Buxton.
The main aim of the 'taster' is to introduce people both to the sport and to the new club, which will meet at Buxton Community School on Tuesday evenings, from 6.30pm to 8pm.
"We have an excellent environment in which to enjoy outdoor sports here in the High Peak, and this event offers a great opportunity for people of all ages, including families, to get out there and have a go at an activity they may not have tried before," said Andrew Bingham, Executive Councillor for Community and Social Development.
"One of our community sports coaches has been running orienteering sessions and working closely with High Peak School Sports Partnership to raise awareness of the benefits of taking part among young people, and this event will spread the word to an even wider audience.
"I hope as many people as possible will come along on the day to try this challenging outdoor pursuit, which is ideal for anyone who wants to learn a new skill, improve their navigation technique or simply enjoy being out in the fresh air. It doesn't matter how young, old or fit you are, you can run, walk or jog round the course at your own pace."
Orienteering is an adventure sport that exercises both the mind and body. Participants navigate a course between control points marked on a map using a compass, and work out the best route to complete it in the quickest time. It can be staged in a variety of locations, from remote forests and countryside to urban parks and school playgrounds.
Anyone keen to have a go should just turn up at the Pavilion Gardens on the day, as organisers will provide everything they need. The cost will be £2 per adult and £1 per child, and further information about the event, sport or Buxton Club is available from British Orienteering on 01629 734042.
You can also visit its website at www.britishorienteering.org.uk or clink on the link on the front page of the High Peak Borough Council website at www.highpeak.gov.uk .