Following in the tracks of last summer's foot orienteering and the post Christmas Turkey Run-off Snowshoe orienteering events, the Kootenay Orienteering Club is offering another way for East Kootenay residents to test their navigation skills. In conjunction with the Kimberley Nordic Club, the Kootenay Orienteering Club will be hosting its first ever ski orienteering event on March 12th, 2011. This event is perfect for those who like x-country skiing and can read a trail map. With all checkpoints along trails, this is the perfect opportunity to give ski-orienteering a try.

Ski orienteering is an endurance sport combining map navigation and cross-country skiing. Participants use a map to navigate a network of trails and visit control points, marked with flags, in correct order. Route choices are made on the basis of the quality of the ski tracks, gradient, and distance, all of which can be read from the map. Participants carry an electronic timing unit (sport ident) to verify that all control points have been visited in the right sequence.

Ski-orienteering is time-measured, with the fastest time winning.

The Kimberley Nordic Centre is an ideal venue for this event, with numerous trail options within a small area. Trails range from double track skate ski trails to single track snowmobile trails. This is a fun event for all ages and skill levels. Middle distance (5 km) & Long Distance (10 - 12 Km) course distances are available. Participants may register as individual racers or as a family group or team. The course will be marked on new detailed 1:10,000 scale map of the Nordic Trail system. Instruction will be provided to beginners prior to the race.

Race registration/check-in is 9:00am - 9:45am, with the race starting at 10:00am. Please pre-register to ease registration on the race day. For more details about the event or to register online, please visit the Kootenay Orienteering Club website at http://koc.kics.bc.ca/home.html or contact kootenayorienteering@gmail.com" kootenayorienteering@gmail.com.