Orienteering in Mote Park

The Mayor of Maidstone Cllr John Perry has launched a number of new orienteering courses at Mote Park today where physical checkpoints are not used.

The new courses complement the existing orienteering routes in Maidstone’s flagship park, which many people already enjoy. The new virtual courses are created using an app called MapRun.  Users need to download the app for free, choose a course to do, and then start the course.

 The map in the app tracks the movement using the phone’s GPS. As people arrive at a virtual checkpoint, such as a tree or path junction, the app registers the visit by sounding a tone and the circle on the app turns green. Once the course is completed, the final result is uploaded to a results website so participants can see how they have performed against each other.

Cllr Clive English, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services at Maidstone Borough Council said: “Orienteering is a fun adventure sport using a map to find checkpoints. The skill lies in finding the most efficient way between them to complete the course. People can choose their own route and can walk, run or race the courses.

 “Adults and children can take part and go at their own pace so it doesn’t matter how young, old or fit people are.

“Why not give it a try, a physical map can be also be used and these are available at the Mote Park Café or download the app.”

The local club is Saxons Orienteering, find out more at www.saxons-oc.org

 The magnificent 450 acre Mote Park is owned and run by Maidstone Borough Council.