By Isle of Wight Observer
Wight Orienteers is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, marking half a century since a small group of Island runners came together in January 1976 to explore the new sport of orienteering.
Using black and white Ordnance Survey maps, the club staged its first event on March 14, 1976, in the north-east corner of Parkhurst Forest.
Around 100 people took part, and, despite the nearby high security prison, no unexpected visitors were found in the woods. A second event followed in May, while a planned September competition was cancelled because of the heatwave and fire risk. By the first event of 1977, entries had risen to 150.
Among the original volunteers were Mick Hunter, Ray Sexton, Christopher Pritchett, Eddie Leal, Steve Tutton, Ian Watterson, Gina Ingram, Richard Pinhorn and Brian Ould. Training courses were organised, and, in 1983, the Forestry Commission’s permanent “Wayfaring Course” was officially opened by the High Sheriff.
Members built experience by travelling to mainland and overseas competitions. Mick Hunter became the club’s first international competitor in 1977, winning the M21B Canadian Night Championships. Others later competed in Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland and France, while Christine Lipscombe was selected to represent England in the W80 category.
The club has also encouraged younger members, with schools events playing an important role. It has experimented with canoe orienteering and quiz walks, and, despite a drop in numbers after Covid-19, chairman, Pete Bartlett, continues to promote the sport.
The club’s 50th anniversary weekend will feature events on September 5 and 6.
