2024 Programs
2024 program information is now found on the membership, programs and registration page, found here. 2022 progrram information is included below for your information if something is not explained on the 2024 site. In the event of a discrepency between 2022 and 2024 information, 2024 rules!The Yukon Orienteering Association strives to offer programs for all ages and abilities.
Kids Running Wild (KRW) - Junior
Ages 7-9, designed for participants with some or no orienteering experience. The goals of this group are to get comfortable in the forest and to learn the basic skills of orienteering so that individuals can complete a beginner course with some help from an adult.
Yellow Squad - Junior
Ages 10-13, designed for participants with some or no orienteering experience. The goals of this group are to learn the basic skills of orienteering so that individuals can complete a beginner course confidently by themselves and an intermediate course with some help.
Orange Squad - Junior
Ages 13-15, designed for those with previous orienteering experience. The focus of this group is on training and practicing to improve. There is a large emphasis on learning new orienteering skills to be able to complete an intermediate or advanced course confidently by themselves.
Navigation 101
This program is intended for adults new to orienteering. The program will develop your understanding of the theory and skills necessary for navigation in any context (backpacking, canoeing, skiing, orienteering etc.) Weekly in-person sessions on local orienteering maps will focus on the basics of map interpretation, orientation techniques, compass bearings and visualization. There is a limit of 12 students. If the course fills up, we will put you on a waiting list. Alternatively, you can check to see if a spot is available in the one-day Learn-to-O clinic.
Navigation 201
This program is intended for adults with a basic understanding of orienteering who are looking to challenge themselves, improve their skills, and enjoy themselves in the woods. Weekly in-person sessions on local orienteering maps will focus on navigation and route choice skills for orienteering.
Red Squad
The Red Squad is for advanced orienteers, aged 17 and up, who are interested in more technical training. This is the place for juniors wanting to get to the next level, or adults wanting to hone their skills. Although a higher technical skill level is required, a wide range of physical abilities can be accommodated. Team practices will be weekly (day of week to be determined) with flexible practice opportunity throughout the week. Red Squad members will be expected to participate in arranging some of the training, but flexibility and support is available.
Several past and present members of Red Squad have joined Orienteering Canada's High Performance Program, and have gone on to represent Canada at the Junior World Orienteering Championships, the World Orienteering Championships, and other international events.
Learn-to-Orienteer Clinic
A partnership with City of Whitehorse, a clinic for adults (18+) with no previous orienteering experience. You will learn the basics of topographic map reading and how to use a compass. Registration opens March 2024 as part of the City of Whitehorse sprig program sign up.
Please also check our Calendar of Events for details on our regular Wednesday Night Meets, and also consider our Yukon Championships, both of which welcome newcomers.