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 3, 6, 12 and 15 hours. Most NSW events are held within 2 to 3 hours of Sydney. Most rogaines are on foot and held in attractive bush and farmland locations. However, some events are held in metropolitan areas (Metrogaines), or on bikes (Cyclegaines). Rogaining is an 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 assistance is always available from the organiser to help get novices 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 return to the hash house at any time for hot food and rest around the campfire, or sleep on long events, before heading out again. Some competitive teams may cover over 50km in a 12 hour event and more than 100km in an event of 24 hours. However, the distance you travel is entirely up to you. The satisfaction comes in finding your way around the course, according to the route you have chosen, and navigating back to the finish within the time limit.
What equipment do I need?
Apart from a small amount of compulsory safety gear (a compression bandage per person, whistle and space blanket), you just need basic bushwalking gear – comfortable clothes and bushwalking/running shoes (e.g. runners or trailshoes or walking boots/shoes). Lots of courses will require you to go off track at some point, if not for long periods of time, so long sleeves and trousers are generally recommended to prevent scratching by vegetation and gaiters are also a good idea (they also keep the sun off). A pair of old cycling gloves can help keep your hands pristine on bush courses. A hat and sunscreen, warm clothes (gloves/beanie) and wet weather gear may also be appropriate, depending on conditions. You’ll need also to carry water on most courses. An information pack can be downloaded before each event that will have specific recommendations on what you should take out on the course.
NSWRA Events
The NSWRA usually runs six rogaines each year. You will usually have a choice of a classic 24 hour event, and a number of the shorter 12, 6 and 3 hour formats. The 24 and 12 hour events often have shorter options.
All events are open to everyone to join in. The only requirement is a moderate level of fitness and some ability to navigate using a topographic map.
The "Event Calendar" will show you what events are planned, the event details and how to go about entering.
Go to the "Past Events List" for results, reports and pictures of past events.
What does it cost?
In NSW entry fees vary from around $40 to $90, depending on the event. This covers hot food during the event, your map, information sheets and facilities at the hash house. All events offer a concession entry fee. Children under 14 have free entry. More details can be found here.
Like to talk to someone?
Drop a line to vicepresident@nswrogaining.org and we will get back to you.