SLOW Street Events and club nights 2005-06

SLOW is putting on a club night once a month during the winter. Each evening will consist of a night street orienteering event, as well as a social event where you can meet up with club members.

Event schedule   Starts from 7pm onwards on the following Tuesdays:

1	13 September 2005	Surbiton	Andrew Trimble	Results
2	11 October 2005	Hinchley Wood	Simon Evans	Results
3	8 November 2005	Wimbledon	Don McKerrow	Results
4	13 December 2005	City of London	Jenny Costigan	Results
5	10 January 2006	Richmond	Matthias Mahr	Results
6	15 February 2006 (Weds)	Guildford	Paul Nixon	Results
7	14 March 2006	Kensington/Notting Hill	Phil Marsland	Results
8	11 April 2006	Hammersmith	Rachael Holmes	Results

Click on the locations above to see area maps.  Further details on each event will be posted on the website a week or two in advance.  If you would like to contact any of the organisers, please check the SLOW membership list for contact details (or email anyone on the "Contact Us" page).

What is a street event?  An urban orienteering event, where you are given a special map of the local area, with the aim of running around looking specific locations ("controls") on the map, under the street lights.  You will also be given a clue sheet, which will ask a question for each control, which you will be able to complete when you find the location – eg "name of the pub" or the "colour of door at number 20".

Each control is assigned a points value - generally the ones further away are worth more points.  The aim is to score as many points as possible, within the given time limit.  There are usually two different time options, 45 minutes or 60 minutes, depending on how long you want to run for.  Try to keep within the time limit, as you will be penalised points for every minute you are late getting back!

Where are the events held?  The street events are held at various locations over SW London, and are usually based either at the organiser's house or a local pub or sports centre.  The events will usually be the second Tuesday of the month, running from September until April.  From May to August we switch over to a summer series of orienteering evening events in parks and woodland, making the most of the light in the evenings. 

People usually turn up between 7pm and 8pm, and start their run soon after arriving.  The organiser will always be there to give you the map and record the start time, and there will be other people around to give you tips and advice before you run.

What does the map look like?  Usually a black-and-white A4 map, showing the outline of the streets – but without street names! There are often some additional useful features included, for example bridges or major buildings.  The map shows the control points which you need to find - there will usually be around 20-30 of these.  

What kit do I need?  All you should need is running kit, a pen and a watch.  You won't need a headlamp as the event is always under streetlights. A compass is not required!

Will I be safe?  The events are held on well lit streets and avoid dark alleyways. Most people prefer to run alone, although you can choose to run in pairs if you prefer. 

What about the social?    The social side starts from about 8pm, when people start coming back from their runs.  You don't have to run - you can just come and have a chat, get an idea of what orienteering is all about, or just join us for a drink.  Usually food and drink is available.  The evening usually finishes between 10 and 11pm.

What is the cost?  The event is usually free.  If someone is providing food and drink there is usually a small charge.  You pay for your own food and drink at a pub or sports centre.  The club pays for printing the maps.

Who can take part?  Everyone is welcome.  The events are particularly suitable for people who have never tried orienteering before, and are an excellent opportunity to meet club members and find out more.  Events which are held in pubs may not be suitable for children - check with the organiser beforehand.

What about prizes?  There will be a prize for the best man and best woman over the series.

Are you interested?  If you would like to take part in these fun events, further details will go up on the website in the week or so before the event.  When the details are posted, it would be helpful to let the organiser know that you are coming - this helps to plan for the number of maps and quantity of food and drink needed.

Series Co-ordinator:

This page updated 13 April 2006