Smart phone challenge puts sport on map

Orienteering will be taken to a new level in the Whakarewarewa Forest this month.

Starting today, anyone wanting to give orienteering a go is encouraged to take part in the Modified Orienteering Challenge.

The challenge will run for three weeks, until July 27, and the aim is to walk or run around a 5km or 10km course in the Whakarewarewa Forest using a map put together by Orienteering Bay of Plenty.

Rather than just use a compass or map to complete the challenge, you will also need a smart phone.

To take part in the challenge you will need to sign up on www.endomondo.com and download the free Endomondo app to your phone.

Get a copy of the 5km or 10km course and instructions from www.sportbop.co.nz/virtuallyontrack-challenges and then get out there and get walking or running.

You can complete the course as many times as you want during the next three weeks. Sport Bay of Plenty is rewarding those who complete the course in the quickest time with sporting vouchers and there are spot prizes to be won.

Results will be shared regularly through the Sport Bay of Plenty website and Facebook page.

The challenge is part of Virtually on Track, a new project launched between Sport Bay of Plenty, the Department of Conservation and Sport New Zealand.

Virtually on Track aims to increase participation in adventure-based sport.

Part of the project focuses on how technology, such as smart phones, can be used to increase the profile and use of the Bay of Plenty's natural resources.

The great thing about the challenge is that people can compete against others in their own time. Virtually on Track project leader Jen Riley encouraged people to get involved.

"Have some fun while testing your speed and skill against others in this virtual time trial. No prior experience of orienteering is needed and the 5km course is great for families to have a go."

For more information go to www.sportbop.co.nz/virtuallyontrack or contact Jen Riley at Sport Bay of Plenty on (07) 578 0016 or email jenr@sportbop.co.nz.