On October 13, 20 Cadets from 561 Air Squadron (Nelson); 2756 Army Corp (Invermere) and 552 Air Squadron (Cranbrook) competed in the Kootenay Zone Orienteering Competition.

During the month competitions are taking place throughout all of the cadet zones in B.C. 552 Air Squadron won first place, 2756 Army Corp won second, and 561 Air Squadron won third. There wasn’t a lot of “time” between each of the teams finishes.

The “team” is two junior cadets (12-14yrs) and two senior cadets (15-18yrs); one of the four must be a female. Additional cadets were gaining experience with running the course (not competing).

Orienteering is an outdoor adventure sport involving cross-country navigation skills to traverse over unfamiliar terrain, collecting ‘control’ punches in the fastest time. There is often more than one route to choose from, so you have to select which way is best for you. The path might be easier, but longer and the direct route might be faster, but more challenging.

The actual term “Orienteering” meant crossing of unknown land with the aid of a map and compass, and the sport origins date back to the Swedish Military during the late 19^th Century. As a part of their training, the first known competition was held for Swedish Military Officers in 1893. The Canadian Orienteering Federation was formed in 1967.

Orienteering is an optional program within the Sea, Army & Air Cadet training syllabus and is being heavily promoted in the province with the assistance of Major Hildebrandt, Victoria and her team. The goal is for all cadet units to participate in this fun adventure sport.

Above image: Left: 2756 Army Corp. Centre: 552 Air Squadron. Right: 561 Air Squadron. Photo submitted

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