These are low-key local events that are ideal for beginners, where anyone can just turn up and run on the day. These events used to be called “color codes” which referred to a rating of course length and difficulty as described using the color scheme in the list below. White is the shortest and easiest, and brown is the hardest and longest. Beginners should start with a yellow or orange course to learn how to use the map. Usually in these events you will need to copy the course to your map after you start.
White courses are very simple with all the controls on the tracks. They are mainly used by children 6-10 years old and family groups. The length of the track is 1.0 – 1.5 km
Yellow courses use simple linear elements such as paths, walls and streams. They are mainly used by children under 12 and families. The length of the track is 1.5 – 2.5 km
Orange courses introduce basic compass use and route selection. They are ideal for beginners. Course length 2.5 – 3.5 km
Red courses are technically similar to orange courses. They are used by beginners who want to run longer. Course length 3.5 – 7.5 km
The light green courses are ideal for improvers as the technical difficulty starts to increase and uses simple contours and “point” features. Course length 2.5 – 3.5 km.
Green courses are technically challenging and use contour and point features. They are used mainly by experienced skiers under the age of 18 and adults who want to take a short but challenging course. The length of the course is 3.5 – 5.0 km
Blue courses are technically challenging and are longer and more physically demanding than green courses. Distances are also more varied between checkpoints, and the course attracts experienced orienteers. Course length: 5.0 – 7.5 km
The rewarding courses are physically and technically challenging. They are designed to challenge experienced orienteers. Course length 7.5 – 10.0 km