Fell race's & navigation

[wharfeego]

...and although I know the basics of using a map and compass have you any tips for making it easier on the day...

Your knowing the basics of using a map and compass is probably far more knowledge than many who take part in fell races.
I'd bet that if you asked competitors to show how they'd take a compass bearing many wouldn't have a clue where to start.
So you're already well ahead of many in the nav skills.

[dantodman]

Your knowing the basics of using a map and compass is probably far more knowledge than many who take part in fell races.
I'd bet that if you asked competitors to show how they'd take a compass bearing many wouldn't have a clue where to start.
So you're already well ahead of many in the nav skills.

I showed a few people how to do this on a recent recce i organised and most were experienced fell runners.

Dan

[mapper]

Your knowing the basics of using a map and compass is probably far more knowledge than many who take part in fell races.
I'd bet that if you asked competitors to show how they'd take a compass bearing many wouldn't have a clue where to start.
So you're already well ahead of many in the nav skills.

How about using a thumb compass?
I bet hardly any fell runners know how to use one of those
They are so simple to use I don't know why they are not more commonplace.
No one needs to know what bearing they're taking eg 'on a bearing of 246 degrees' ~ you just need to know which way to go!

[IanDarkpeak]

Keep both of Ian's articles handy as reference because there are lots of little tips that won't register from a read through and without practice on the fell, you won't improve your skills and confidence.

Chris I was wondering if it was worth doing it as a handout on the course?

[IanDarkpeak]

How about using a thumb compass?
I bet hardly any fell runners know how to use one of those
They are so simple to use I don't know why they are not more commonplace.
No one needs to know what bearing they're taking eg 'on a bearing of 246 degrees' ~ you just need to know which way to go!

very true. just keeping thumb compass to orientate the map is often enough for a good navigator.

[Mark G]

I agree Ian but I prefer thumb compasses with graduated bezels, handy for dialling in a preplanned bearing or confirming a bearing with a partner but just as good for setting the map.
See you weekend after next.

[Chris K]

Ian yes, if you have a bunch of handouts to bring, my thought would be to produce them during your Sunday morning FRA sponsors talk - as with the magazines - to take home afterwards. But Mark is the one in charge for this Kettlewell. The hypothermia we've had out on the Friday night as a reminder that all day on the fell on Saturday will require many layers!

[The Navigator]

Ah yes - Old Farts Reunion weekend after next

[Mark G]

Ian yes, if you have a bunch of handouts to bring, my thought would be to produce them during your Sunday morning FRA sponsors talk - as with the magazines - to take home afterwards. But Mark is the one in charge for this Kettlewell. The hypothermia we've had out on the Friday night as a reminder that all day on the fell on Saturday will require many layers!

Hi Ian - What he said!

[Chris K]

Ah yes - Old Farts Reunion weekend after next

.......and quite likely some new ones too!