MORE than 100 bike enthusiasts from throughout South East Queensland are expected to take part in a mountain bike orienteering event which is being held at the Karingal Scout Camp at Mt Cotton, on Sunday, March 7.
President of the Multi Terrain Bike Orienteers, Craig Steffens, said that this form of orienteering combined basic map reading and navigational skills with bike riding ability in rough terrain.
The control points were set along the tracks rather than in the bush so they were easy to find.
"We prefer forested areas with a good track network and a variety of terrain as route choice and quick decision making are very important elements of this sport," Steffens said. "The Karingal Scout Camp is an ideal venue for mountain bike orienteering as it has a very good track network."
He said that five courses, ranging in length from 16km down to 5km, would be offered at Sunday's event to cater for experienced riders as well as beginners.
"Any local riders who enjoy mountain bike riding and who are looking for a new challenge are welcome to come along to the event," Steffens said.
"We will have experienced club members there to help newcomers understand the map and the basic navigation skills required."
Steffens said that anyone intending to come along should contact him on 041 887 1193 and that further details about the event were available from the club website: www.mtbo.com.au
For Sunday's event, five courses have been set around the road and track network at Karingal to suit all levels of ability.
Starting times for the event will be open from 8am-10am and the assembly area will be signposted off Mt Cotton Road, just beyond Siromet Wines.