Checkpoint Chase at Princess Vlei

Princess Vlei was a hive of activity on Saturday 29th August, when the Peninsula Orienteering Club (PENOC) held the first ever orienteering event at the Vlei.  This was at the invitation of the Princess Vlei Forum, and with the blessing of the City Council. 

In PENOC’s own words, “Orienteering is an exciting outdoor adventure sport.  It involves walking or running while navigating around a course using a detailed map and sometimes a compass.

“The aim is to navigate in sequence between a set of control points, deciding on the best route to complete the course in the quickest time.  It does not matter how young, old or fit you are, as you can run, walk or jog the course and progress at your own pace. 

“Orienteering events are held anywhere from remote forest and countryside to urban parks and school playgrounds.  It’s a great sport for runners, joggers and walkers who want to improve their navigation skills or for anyone who loves the outdoors.”

89 participants set off at 11.30 on Saturday, the seasoned orienteers on the longer course and the novices, including families with young children, on the shorter course.  A group of adult Scout leaders used it as one of the events in their weekend of training.  Younger Scouts, learners from John Graham Primary School in Plumstead and other young people participated.  Members of PENOC had set up the course earlier in the morning, and when the race began the area between Princess Vlei and Little Princess Vlei was all action. 

Even the spring daisies and other fynbos delights appeared as if by magic on the dunes, cheering the orienteers on their way, and there was warmth in the air. 

An hour after the start the participants were making for the finish and handing in their cards.  Soon the winners were announced and the prizes distributed, the event ending with a great buzz as participants and spectators discussed the their experiences and enjoyed refreshments at the finish line. 

The 13 organisers and helpers from PENOC and the Princess Vlei Forum ensured a happy and trouble-free event.  They look forward to holding further events of this nature in the precincts of Princess Vlei.

See www.penoc.co.za and www.princessvlei.org for more information.