MapRun can be a great resource for engaging newcomers in orienteering or for hosting club activities. Since SOA last ran a MapRun workshop a couple of years ago there have been a lot of new developments and improvements in the app. The app is now much more user friendly as GPS technology has improved. Recently, MapRun has been used for the Orienteering Edinburgh series.
Having had a wonderful summer of orienteering, it’s now time to turn our thoughts to sharing learning, upskilling and training our next generation of volunteers. We have two sessions for Controllers coming up.
A Grade C Controllers course will be running in Glasgow, 10am – 4 pm on 30th September 2023. If you would like to attend, please fill in the registration form which gives more details of the requirements to become a controller. The course is free. Detailed joining instructions will be sent out nearer the time. In the meantime any questions can be addressed to suzanne@scotttish-orienteering.org
A Controllers’ Event Safety update and discussion will be chaired by our Safety Director Tim O’Donoghue on the evening of Sat 28th October in the Tullieallan/Devilla area. Please fill in the registration form if you would like to attend. A rough agenda for the session includes First Aid provision, considerations for urban events, emergency plans and response, dynamic risk assessment, records and reporting.
We are delighted to announce that Andy Mitchelmore has been appointed as the new Event Director for WOC 2024.
“I’m excited to take on the Event Director role for WOC 2024 and to be working with key stakeholders and the passionate and knowledgeable members of the Orienteering community to deliver another world-class event in Scotland.
Having held strategic and operational roles in the planning and delivery of major sporting events within the UK, Ireland and the Middle East for more than 20 years; I have successfully worked with National and International Federations from a range of sports, broadcasters, funding partners and sponsors.
As an Edinburgh resident for most of my life, I am proud to have previously led the delivery of major elite and mass participation sporting events in my home city. I am looking forward to continuing my relationships with City of Edinburgh Council, Historic Environment Scotland and EventScotland, and engaging trusted local suppliers to ensure the success of WOC 2024 in the Scottish Capital.”
The following athletes have been selected to represent Scotland at the 2023 Senior Home International, which will be held in Wales on the 9/10th September. It is a strong team despite several top runners being unavailable, and we wish them the best of luck as they attempt to win for the first time in several years. Congratulations to Aidan Smith and Niamh Hunter representing Scotland for the first time.
M21
Graham Gristwood
Matt Gooch
Aidan Smith
James Ackland
Mark Nixon
Daniel Stansfield
M20
James Hammond
Adam Barrie
Frank Townley
W21
Niamh Hunter
Mairi Eades
Kirstin Maxwell
Kathryn Barr
Katrina McLeod
Kirsten Strain
W20
Isobel Howard
Daisy McNamara
Fiona Eades
We sought to appoint two new members of staff over the summer period. Unfortunately we were not able to fill the roles. We are grateful for those who applied but feel that we are looking for a more experienced skill set.
Are you passionate about orienteering? We have two roles which offer the opportunity for someone who loves orienteering and is looking for a new challenge.
Senior Development Officer
We are looking for someone to work alongside our existing development officer, Heidi Ross, who is based in Edinburgh and is full time. The role offers the opportunity for an experienced orienteer to help develop the sport through exciting projects with partners and support clubs with their development. Whilst the role is advertised as a 3.5 day a week role we are are flexible and would consider splitting the role or looking at ways to potentially create a full time role for the right candidate.
The team supports clubs with the development of orienteering in Scotland and therefore it is essential that any applicant has a full driving license and access to a car. The post involves home working but the team meet on a regular basis both online and in person. The role outline can be found here.
We are offering a great package to the suitable applicant so come and join our small and enthusiastic team at the SOA. Applications are being sought by close of play 7th September 2023. Please contact Nikki Howard with any queries and submit a CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the post to nikki@scottish-orienteering.org
Events and Operations Manager
The Events and Operations Manager post offers the opportunity for flexible working from home, with a small and enthusiastic team, to ensure high standard events are delivered for SOA and the Scottish 6 Days Company.
Working on behalf of the Scottish 6 Days Company (2 days a week) the successful candidate will operate as the assistant event coordinator for the biannual Scottish 6 Days Event in Deeside in 2025 and also act as assistant event coordinator for the World Orienteering Championships in Edinburgh in 2024. The remaining time (2 days a week) will be spent on work for the SOA ensuring a successful calendar of events is delivered and strategic partnerships are maintained.
If you are an excellent communicator who is passionate about ensuring high quality events are delivered in Scotland please take a further look at the role here.
Applications are being sought by close of play 7th September 2023. Please contact Nikki Howard with any queries and submit a CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the post to nikki@scottish-orienteering.org