What is Rogaining?
Rogaining is the sport of long distance cross-country navigation, in which teams of two to five people visit as many checkpoints as they wish in a set time period. The traditional rogaine is 24 hours in duration, however, there are also shorter events of 4, 6, 8 and 12 hours. Most events are held within a two hour drive of Canberra.
Most rogaines are held on foot in picturesque bush and farmland locations, however, some events are held in metropolitan areas (Metrogaines) or on bikes (Cyclogaines).
Rogaining is a real adventure sport and is a lot of fun.
Who is it for?
Rogaining is a team activity for people of all ages and levels of fitness. Everyone from elite athletes to families with young children can enjoy rogaining. New rogainers are always welcome and event organisers are willing to help you get started.
The parts of the course you visit are entirely up to you and your team members. There are no set routes and you don't have to spend the whole time on the course. You can even return to the Hash House (start/finish/base camp) at anytime for some hot food and rest around the campfire, or even a sleep, before heading out again.
Some competitive teams may cover 50 km in a 12 hour event and even more in an event of 24 hours duration. However, the distance you travel is entirely up to you. The satisfaction comes in finding your way around the course according to the route that you have chosen, and navigating back to the finish within the time limit.
What do you need?
Rogaining is good value for money; all you need is basic bushwalking gear including a compass, whistle, pencil, water bottle, comfortable and warm clothes and shoes, and a basic team first aid kit. On 12 and 24 hour events you may also wish to bring along camping gear and spend overnight at the Hash House.
What does it cost?
In the ACT, entry fees vary from about $20 to $70, depending on the event. This covers hot food during and/or after the event, your map, information sheets and facilities at the Hash House. Children under 14 are free.
How does it work?
Between 1 and 3 hours (depending on the length of the event) before the start of the event you get a map with all the control locations marked on it. You also receive a description of the control points and their points value. The idea is you choose your own route to get what ever controls you want. Make sure that you get back before the time limit expires as there are hefty points penalties for being late.
At each control there is an electronic punch that you use to record your visit on a provided tag attached to your wrist. This proves you have been to the control. Rogaining is a team sport and the team MUST stay together at all times.
See the Contact Us page for people to contact for more information
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