Arab Orienteering Championship: Algiers to Host Inaugural Edition from February 1 to 5
ALGIERS, January 30, 2025 – Algeria will host the first edition of the Arab Orienteering Championship from February 1 to 5, featuring athletes from six participating countries, as announced by the Algerian National Sports for All Federation (FASPT).
“This event aims to promote this emerging discipline across Arab nations by training young participants from various affiliated sports associations,” said Asma Kada, head of the orienteering committee at the national sports federation, in an interview with APS.
“Algerian athletes possess significant ex+perience, having already competed in several national orienteering events,” she added.
In addition to Algeria, the host country, six other Arab nations have confirmed their participation in the inaugural competition, including Egypt, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain, and Yemen. Athletes will compete over a maximum distance of three kilometers across three venues: Bouchaoui Forest, La Promenade des Sablettes, and the Olympic Complex “Mohamed Boudiaf.”
“Algeria will be represented by eight athletes from the national team—four men and four women—under the auspices of the National Sports for All Federation (FASPT). The competition will provide an opportunity to showcase the potential, technical skills, and physical abilities of young Arab athletes while assessing their understanding of orienteering concepts, effective compass use, and accurate map reading,” Kada explained. She noted that orienteering takes place in natural environments and is suitable for individuals of all ages, whether competing individually or in groups. Its unique characteristics and methodologies appeal not only to participants’ physical capabilities but also to their enjoyment of exploring and appreciating engaging surroundings.
Originating in Scotland, orienteering is an individual sport that involves navigating a designated course of varying lengths in the shortest time possible. Participants rely on their ability to find the best route using a compass, with the course previously mapped out on a geographical chart.
This sport also enhances participants’ observation skills, reflexes, and analytical thinking in real-world scenarios, while helping them acquire topographical and navigational techniques. Its primary goal is to teach individuals how to effectively read maps and use compasses, all while improving their mental and physical coordination and decision-making skills in timely situations.
During the competition, participants will utilize a compass and map for navigation. The most successful competitors will be those who complete the course in record time while conserving energy and effort.
