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???

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?