Extreme-O 2011

Although it evolved from a NATO Military competition, for most competitors, EXTREME-O is just silly FUN that a devoted following looks forward to after the serous competition of the annual GAOC NAV-CUP. However, it has proved to be quite useful as a training run for competitive orienteers, military athletes, and adventure racers and provides "outside the box" thinking about land navigation.

What to expect: You will get dirty. You will get muddy. We PROMISE that you will need a change of clothes and shoes when you are done! In years past, tasks involving rope bridges, canoes, rafts, rope climbs, puzzles, and bikes, to name a few, have been part of the course...you just never know what to expect! While on the course you will use a variety of map types and map scales. Some points may be found using techniques involving map coordinates, aerial photos, and memory legs.

Training Session: Don't know about any of the above? No problem! We provide a mandatory Information and Training Session on the Sunday following the NAV-CUP awards ceremony to help competitors feel more secure while on the course. All competitors (coaches too) are expected to attend.

Who competes: Competitors must be able to consistently complete an orange level equivalent or higher competitive course. A competitor may compete as an individual or with as many as 2-3 teammates...whatever your skill level, teams are encouraged and much more fun!

Courses: There will be two courses: A LONG course and SHORT course. Course length varies from year to year, depending on the terrain. The LONG course (average 7-12 km) is for the more experienced competitor or the adventure racer. The SHORT course (average 4-6 km) is more for fun and appropriate for Orienteers (orange course or higher level) including ROTC, JROTC, Scout & School Teams as well as friends and families just out for a good time. Both courses will provide fun tasks. Be assured that SHORT Course runners won't miss a minute of the fun.

When: Monday after the NAV-Cup. A typical course starts promptly at 8 am and takes 3-4 hours. We like everyone out of the woods by noon so planes can be caught or the bus loaded for home. Warning: Those late for the start might not get to start!

Chuck & Linda Ferguson
Extreme-O Meet Directors