South Yorkshire Orienteers

Orienteering is a challenging outdoor adventure sport. The aim is to navigate between control points marked on an orienteering map and decide the best route to complete the course in the quickest time. It does not matter how young, old or fit you are as you can choose the course that's right for you and run, jog or walk it at your own pace. It is excellent for adults wanting to shape up, add some excitement and mental challenge to their running and meet new friends. It is also ideal for families as everyone can take part at the level that's right for them and it allows children to develop independence, confidence and decision making skills. South Yorkshire Orienteers have around 300 members ranging in age from 5 to 85. There is a wide range of ability and experience within the club from beginners to elite orienteers, who represent Great Britain all over the world. We offer a friendly and informal welcome to the sport - supporting adult and junior beginners and more seasoned orienteers alike with coaching and a programme of regular events. We run a club night on Wednesday evenings in term-time and 2-3 events of varying type each month: Saturday afternoon schools and newcomer series, Wednesday evening events & socials linked in to our Club Nights and Sunday regional and national events (Level C & above). Some of our newer members have said: “The great thing about orienteering is that as a family we can all compete at our own level and work on our own goals.” “One to one support is really nice - you've been really encouraging and helpful to us.” “The children really like the whole club thing - the BBQs, the socials, the club champs, the great club kit and the atmosphere at the big events.” “I really benefit from the regular coaching sessions.” The club is one of the most successful in the country. In 2014 and 2018 we were awarded club of the year by the sport’s National Body for our outstanding contribution to the provision and development of orienteering. We have finished in the top 3 of the CompassSport Cup inter-club competition almost every year since 2008 and have several British Champions amongst our membership. Some of our junior members train with the Yorkshire and Humberside Junior Squad and GB Talent Squad. Many members of the club represent or have represented Great Britain in International Competition. 2022 is the club's 50th year and we have a number of events planned to celebrate this anniversary. We are an inclusive club and seek to make sure that orienteering is an activity open to anyone who wishes to take part in whatever role.