Course Setting
Introduction
The course setter’s function is:
- to design a fair and interesting course which involves checking the suitability of each proposed checkpoint, checking the accurate location of each checkpoint, checking the accuracy of the map around each checkpoint and placing checkpoints in the field. This work is usually shared across a course-setting team.
- prepare the competition map.
- prepare the Course Setter’s Notes.
Course Setting and Mapping
The IRF (International Rogaining Federation) manual Organising a Rogaine by Rod Costigan is a comprehensive guide, although some sections of the manual are dated.
There are a range of methods available for preparing a rogaine map. The best method will depend on how much time you can spend, how accurate you want the map to be, and what kind of basic data is available for your course. Regardless, digitised rogaining maps that allow the easy addition of map corrections and provide excellent legibility are now in standard use in NSW.
As a first step, read through the "Detailed Course Setting Advice" document which provides a description of course-setting activities.
Resources that will help with map preparation are ...
- "Metrogaine" style course setting information. This applies only to a "Question & Answer" style event.
- Mapping in OCAD - drawing a map using OCAD.
- The on-line shop at NSW Land and Property Information sells map sheets and digital maps.
- The NSW Spatial Information Exchange allows you to view topographic map, satellite and some aerial photo data. You need to install the "SIX Viewer" to view the data.
Don't forget that along with the map and control card (latter can be used as a backup to Navlight), you'll also need to prepare a list of control descriptions and points, and a flight plan intentions sheet for competitors to show their intended route.
Landowners
In NSW, local councils generally won't give out information on land ownership for free. So, you may need to rely on local networking to determine landowners. When you meet landowners, ask them to show you their property boundaries on a map. Also ask if they can provide any details of their neighbours. If landowners are comfortable with the idea of a rogaine on their property, leave some information with them to digest. Some useful information might include:
- a general flyer on rogaining.
- a previous rogaining map.
- an introductory letter about your event, including the area you are looking at, the date of the event, your contact details. Describe what would be invovled for a landowner, remembering that their land may need to be accessed by course setters, vetters, flag hangers, participants and flag collectors.
Landowners often ask about insurance. NSWRA is insured by the Australian Rogaining Association and a copy of the insurance policy is available on the Insurance Documents page of the ARA website. The "Landowner Insurance Clause - Draft" should be given to landowners in your communications with them.
Some landowners (e.g., state and national authorities) have particular requirements. You can expect to be charged an administration fee and a fee per competitor from authorities such as: