Eastern Washington Orienteering Club
An Orienteering Event
At A Control Point
When you arrive at the right point and go to the described flag location you should see a flag like the one at left. Immediately confirm that its number (122 in this case) matches the identifier on your clue sheet. If it's the right one, use the punch hanging from it to mark the appropriate box on your punch card.
Bonus Details
- EWOC uses traditional punches like the ones shown above. Some larger clubs use electronic "punches." Each participant wears an electronic stick on a finger. When they reach a control they dip the device into a hole in the control station for a split second, and the control i.d. and time get recorded on the stick for comparison at the finish. See Sportident's website if you're curious.
- If you make an error — like accidentally punching a box with the wrong punch -- don't punch twice in the same box. Some cards have a few boxes specifically made for repunches. If not, you can punch in a higher-numbered box that wouldn't otherwise be needed. If it's not obvious what you did, you should probably explain it to the scorekeeper when you finish so you get the credit you deserve.
The next several pages will be a tutorial on how to use a compass and map together — a key skill in orienteering. Even if you're already familiar with using a compass, you might learn some ways to save time out on the course. If you want a hands-on experience, go get your compass now and print out a copy of the map we use in the lessons.