Posts Tagged ‘tracks’

When does 1hr 20min mean just that?

Sunday, March 7th, 2010

Can anyone tell me what the protocol is for time on walks? When does 1hr 20min mean just that? Was on a walk just out of Matakana today – and the time stamped on the sign did not match the 50min it took to complete the walk.

I appreciate we all walk at different speeds – so it begs the question. Is there a protocol established for these times. i.e. is it the average / the mean / the mid point? I am not sure.

I appreciate the difficulties given the type of terrain, nature of the trails, conditions of track etc – but a standard protocol may give people a better idea of what they are in for.

Maybe what is needed is a standard time measure (lets say the mean) with a +/- rating for people who are on either side of the bell curve.

I am just a simple man – I am sure others will have better ideas; but before the debate starts someone maybe able to advise whether there is already something in place???

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Orienteering – one of NZ best kept secrets?

Saturday, March 6th, 2010

OK – so according to your comments, Tongariro Crossing is one of our great walks… so I ask another question – Is Orienteering one of NZ best kept secrets?

I had a crack on Thursday at 3 courses set up just out of Dargaville in the North. Asa man who does enjoy the outdoors. I did a Middle distance course and 2 sprint courses. They were set for beginners – so pretty much stuck to the tracks – but what a great way to get out on these tracks – gave them a whole new perspective.

Whats is more (as I was out there with a school group) it introduced both the outdoors and our walking trails to a new group – some whom had never stepped foot in the widerness before.

Thumbs up to Clair and www.nzorienteering.com for this initiative, but after seeing the kids reaction, it begs the question – Is this one of our best kept secrets. There is alot to like about the sport. Your thoughts?

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