Irish Senior Orienteering Squad Gathers for Night and Sprint Training in Dublin

Last Saturday evening, the Irish Senior Orienteering Squad convened for an engaging training session aimed at honing their skills in night navigation and sprint orienteering. The action-packed weekend was meticulously planned and organized by senior squad member Josh, with maps generously provided by 3Rock Orienteering Club and JoshOsh Mapping.

Night Orienteering: Compass Bearing Mastery

The weekend kicked off with a night orienteering session focused on compass bearing training. Navigating through the darkness sharpened participants’ ability to rely on precise bearings and focus under challenging conditions. Night orienteering remains a crucial skill for elite competitors, and the session provided an excellent opportunity for squad members to refine this essential technique.

Sprint Orienteering in Dublin’s Heart

Sunday’s activities transitioned into a high-energy urban sprint training, modeled after a qualification and final race format. The scenic yet complex streets of Dublin’s iconic Grafton Street and Temple Bar provided a dynamic training ground. With bustling pedestrian areas and intricate alleyways, the urban terrain tested the athletes’ quick decision-making, navigation under pressure, and physical speed.

Josh’s efforts in organizing the weekend ensured a professional and challenging experience for the team. His use of high-quality maps created by JoshOsh Mapping further elevated the sessions, showcasing the importance of detailed mapping in modern orienteering.

Building Momentum for Future Success

The weekend’s training provided not only a platform for skill development but also an opportunity for team bonding and preparation for upcoming international competitions. The mix of night navigation and urban sprinting reflects the versatility required of elite orienteers, and the squad is steadily building momentum for future challenges.

Special thanks to 3Rock Orienteering Club and JoshOsh Mapping for their support in making the weekend a success. The Irish Orienteering Association commends the efforts of the senior squad and looks forward to seeing these skills in action on the global stage.

For more updates on the Irish Senior Orienteering Squad, stay tuned to their Instagram page or OI’s website!

Announcement: Orienteering Ireland Senior Squad 2025

Orienteering Ireland is proud to announce the Senior Squad for 2025. This talented group of athletes represents the best of Irish orienteering, showcasing dedication, skill, and a passion for the sport.

Senior Squad Members 2025:

Female Athletes:

• Aoife McCavana
• Niamh Corbett
• Éadaoin McCavana
• Aoife O’Sullivan
• Clodagh Moran
• Rosalind Heron (Returning)
• Emer Perkins (Returning)

Male Athletes:

• Kevin O’Boyle
• Niall McCarthy
• Conor Short (Returning)
• Josh O’Sullivan-Hourihan
• Ruairi Short
• Colm Moran
• Cillin Corbett
• Paul Pruzina
• Liam Cotter
• Eoghan Whelan
• Jack Hanafin (New)
• Aidan McCullough
• Adam Gray (New)
• Zach Harrington (Returning)

We are excited to welcome new members Rosalind Heron, Jack Hanafin, and Adam Gray to the squad, alongside returning and experienced athletes. The squad reflects the strength and depth of orienteering talent across Ireland.

As always, the team is committed to representing Ireland with distinction in the upcoming competitive season. Please join us in congratulating the squad and wishing them the very best for the challenges ahead.

Stay Connected:
Follow us for updates on the squad’s performance, upcoming events, and more at Orienteering Ireland’s website and on social media.

Ireland’s Elite Poised to Dominate the Thrilling World Cup!

Orienteering Ireland is excited to announce that six talented athletes will represent Ireland at the World Cup Final in Finland. The team includes Aoife, Clodagh, Colm, Cílín, Ruairi, and Laurence. They will compete internationally starting on September 26th.

The final races for the 2024 Orienteering World Cup will take place in Kuopio, Finland, from Thursday to Sunday.

These forest races are the fourth round of the World Cup this year. Earlier rounds featured fast and tricky sprint races in Switzerland and Italy, followed by tough races at the European Championships in Hungary in August.

However, the challenge in Finland will be different. The forests around Kuopio, which will also host the 2025 World Championships, are relatively flat with few steep slopes. Some areas have many details to navigate, while others have fewer.

The World Cup Final begins on Thursday with the long-distance race. Friday is a rest day, followed by the middle-distance race on Saturday. The relays on Sunday will close the international orienteering season.

Follow live updates of the action here.

Good luck to our Irish team!

Orienteering squad application 2025

Orienteering Ireland: National Senior Squad Applications for 2025 Now Open!

Are you an athlete with a passion for orienteering and a high-performance mindset? The Senior Squad  and High Performance Manager are excited to announce that applications for the National Senior Squad for 2025 are now officially open!

We are on the lookout for dedicated individuals who demonstrate exceptional skill in navigation and endurance. As a member of the National Senior Squad, you will have the opportunity to represent Ireland in international competitions and bring pride to the nation.

Applicants should be prepared to commit to a rigorous training program designed to hone their orienteering abilities to an elite level. We believe in nurturing talent and providing our athletes with the support they need to achieve their full potential.

If you are ready to compete among the best, we encourage you to apply. Visit the following link: https://t.ly/eOUPo for more details on the application process and eligibility criteria.

Please note, the application window closes on the 9th of November, 2024. We look forward to discovering the next generation of orienteering champion.

Senior Squad Update

Josh O’Sullivan-Hourihan Shines at Men Elite Vienna O-Challenge 2024

Josh O’Sullivan-Hourihan of Cork O delivered a standout performance at the Men Elite category of the Vienna O-Challenge 2024, showcasing his exceptional orienteering skills. Competing against top international athletes, Josh’s precise navigation and speed helped him conquer the challenging terrain of Vienna’s urban and park areas. His ability to maintain focus and adapt to the varied course conditions allowed him to take a commanding lead early on, securing the first spot among the top finishers.

His performance is a testament to his hard work and dedication, reflecting his growing prominence on the international orienteering stage.

World Cup Final Orienteering Team Announcement

I am pleased to announce the selection of our athletes for the World Cup Final Orienteering event in Finland.

The team representing Orienteering Ireland will be:

• Aoife McCavana
• Clodagh Moran
• Laurence Quinn
• Colm Moran
• Cillin Corbett
• Ruairi Short

Congratulations to each of you! Your dedication, skill, and hard work have earned you a spot on the team, and we are confident that you will make a strong showing at the competition.

I would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to the selectors for their invaluable involvement in the selection process. Your expertise and commitment are instrumental in ensuring that we field the best possible team.

Best of luck to our selected athletes as you prepare for this exciting challenge. 

We are all behind you and look forward to celebrating your success on the international stage.

You can follow the World Cup Final on https://orienteering.sport/worldcup/kuopio/ and https://www.woc2025.fi/world-cup-2024/

Triumph Over Terrain: The Unyielding Spirit of Champions at the 2024 World Orienteering Championship

The Irish Orienteering team has once again proven their exceptional skill and determination at the World Orienteering Championships 2024. With a team composed of both seasoned athletes and promising newcomers, they have showcased the spirit of Ireland in the historic city of Edinburgh, a place where every alley and avenue tells a story.

The team, announced by Orienteering Ireland’s High Performance Manager, Jens Waechter, included a mix of sprint specialists and relay experts. Among them were Paul Pruzina, Josh O’Sullivan Hourihan, Cillin Corbett, Niamh O’Boyle, Niamh Corbett, Eadaoin McCavana, Kevin O’Boyle, Colm Moran, and Aoife McCavana. Each member brought their unique strengths to the competition, creating a well-rounded and formidable team.

The championships, held from July 11-16, were not just a test of physical endurance but also of mental acuity. Orienteering is often described as the “thinking sport” because it requires competitors to navigate through unfamiliar terrain using only a map and compass. It’s a sport that challenges the mind as much as the body, and the Irish team excelled in both aspects.

The backdrop of Edinburgh, with its UNESCO World Heritage sites and the iconic Edinburgh Castle, provided a stunning and challenging environment for the orienteers. The narrow alleys, intricate pathways, and the undulating landscape tested the athletes’ navigation skills to the limit. Yet, the Irish team navigated these challenges with finesse, demonstrating their preparation, teamwork, and the indomitable Irish spirit.

Their performance at the World Championships is a testament to the growth of orienteering in Ireland and the dedication of Orienteering Ireland to develop world-class athletes. The success of the Irish team serves as an inspiration to the orienteering community and sports enthusiasts across Ireland and beyond. It shows that with passion, perseverance, and teamwork, even the most intricate paths can lead to victory.

As we celebrate the achievements of the Irish Orienteering team, we also look forward to their future endeavors and the continued growth of the sport. Their journey at the World Orienteering Championships 2024 is not just a story of competition but one of camaraderie, national pride, and the pursuit of excellence.

For more information on the Irish Orienteering team and their journey, you can visit Orienteering Ireland’s official website or the World Orienteering Championships 2024 official page. Here’s to the team’s continued success and the adventures that await them in the world of orienteering. Sláinte!

Sprinting Through Dublin: A Weekend of Intensive Orienteering Training

Over the weekend, the national squad of Orienteering Ireland convened in Dublin for an intensive sprint camp aimed at sharpening their skills and refining their strategies. From Friday night through Sunday, the athletes immersed themselves in a series of challenging training sessions designed to mimic the intensity and precision required at the highest levels of competition.

Friday Night: Setting the Pace

The camp kicked off on Friday night with a burst of energy as the squad delved into a general orienteering sprint training session. Taking place in the picturesque setting of Castleknock, Dublin, athletes navigated through a course designed to replicate the format of the Orienteering World Championships. It was a chance for the team to shake off any rust and reacquaint themselves with the intricacies of sprint orienteering.

Under the guidance of their coach, the athletes tackled a variety of terrain, honing their map-reading skills and decision-making abilities under pressure. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the squad embraced the opportunity to push themselves to their limits right from the outset.

Saturday Morning: Precision and Technique

As the sun rose on Saturday morning, the focus shifted to the technical aspects of sprint orienteering. The squad gathered at the UCD grounds for four intensive training intervals, each designed to challenge their ability to make optimal route choices in fast-paced environments.

With a keen eye on efficiency and precision, athletes navigated through complex courses, constantly assessing the terrain and adjusting their strategies on the fly. Every decision mattered as they worked to minimize time lost and maximize speed.

Saturday Afternoon: Mastering Route Choices

In the afternoon, attention turned to perfecting route choices as the squad ventured to Applewood, Dublin for another round of training. With a focus on achieving a 90% success rate in route choices, athletes pushed themselves to the limit, pushing through fatigue and mental barriers to maintain focus and accuracy.

The training session served as a valuable opportunity for the team to fine-tune their decision-making processes, identifying strengths and weaknesses in their approach and implementing strategies for improvement.

Saturday Night: Analysis and Strategy

As the sun set on Saturday evening, the squad reconvened for a training analysis session and a knockout sprint runners choice exercise at the Sport Ireland campus. It was a chance for athletes to reflect on their performances throughout the day, identifying areas of progress and areas for further development.

Under the guidance of the coaching staff, the team dissected their routes and decision-making processes, seeking insights that would inform their strategies for the upcoming competitions. The knockout sprint exercise added an element of unpredictability, challenging athletes to think on their feet and adapt to changing circumstances.

Sunday: Putting It All Together

The final day of the camp saw the senior team put their skills to the test in a series of knockout sprint-style qualifications and finals simulations. Venturing to Skerries and Rush, Dublin, athletes faced off against each other in a high-stakes environment, pushing themselves to the limit in pursuit of victory.

With a focus on maximum speed and precise control, athletes navigated through challenging courses, drawing on their training and experience to make split-second decisions and execute flawless routes. It was a chance for the team to showcase their progress and readiness for the upcoming Irish championships.

Team Collaboration and Preparation

Throughout the weekend, the national squad demonstrated not only their individual talent but also their ability to work together as a cohesive unit. The involvement of the entire senior team in planning different courses, under the guidance of the High-Performance Manager, highlighted the collective effort and commitment to excellence that defines the squad.

This training camp was more than just an opportunity for individual athletes to improve their skills—it was a crucial step in the team’s preparation for the challenges ahead. With the Irish championships looming just three weeks away, the camp served as a vital opportunity for the national team to fine-tune their preparations and solidify their plans for success.

Looking Ahead

As the squad departs Dublin and returns to their respective training bases, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The weekend’s intensive training camp has provided them with the tools and confidence they need to tackle the upcoming competitions head-on.

With their sights set on World Championship selection, the national squad of Orienteering Ireland remains focused and driven, ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead. As they continue their journey towards excellence, one thing is certain: the spirit of determination and camaraderie that defines this team will carry them through to victory.

Acknowledgements and Thanks

As the national squad of Orienteering Ireland concludes their intensive training camp in Dublin, it’s important to extend heartfelt thanks to those who made it all possible. The success of the weekend would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of the course planners, whose meticulous planning and thoughtful design ensured that athletes were challenged and inspired at every turn.

A special note of gratitude goes to Paul Pruzina, Jens Waechter, Kevin O’Boyle, and Conor Short for their invaluable contributions to the training camp. Their passion for the sport and commitment to excellence shone through in every aspect of the weekend’s activities, guiding athletes towards new heights of achievement.

Additionally, a big thank you is owed to Fingal Orienteers for graciously allowing the national squad to use their maps for the training sessions. Their generosity and support are deeply appreciated and played a vital role in the success of the camp.

Josh O’Sullivan-Hourihan deserves special recognition for his contributions in supplying pictures and videos throughout the training camp. His efforts in capturing the essence of the weekend’s activities not only provided valuable documentation but also served as a source of inspiration and motivation for the athletes.

Lastly, a word of thanks to High Performance Manager Jens Waechter for his tireless efforts in organizing and overseeing the training camp. His leadership and guidance were instrumental in ensuring that the weekend ran smoothly and that athletes had everything they needed to excel.

As the squad reflects on their experiences in Dublin and prepares to take on the challenges that lie ahead, they do so with a profound sense of gratitude for the support and expertise of those who helped make the training camp a resounding success.

Jens Waechter, High Performance Manager, Orienteering Ireland

Orienteering Ireland’s Sprint Training Camp in Dublin: A Weekend Uniting Nations

Orienteering Ireland’s recent Sprint Training Camp in Dublin transcended borders, bringing together participants from the Belgian National Team, the Irish Senior Team, and talented Irish Juniors. This unique blend of international and local talent added an extra layer of excitement to an already thrilling weekend of skill development and competition.

Day 1: Multinational Gathering and Nighttime Sprint Intervals

The camp kicked off with a diverse group of participants eager to enhance their sprint orienteering prowess. The Belgian National Team, known for its elite athletes, joined forces with the Irish Senior Team and promising Irish Juniors. The collective energy set the stage for an inclusive and enriching weekend.

Sprint Intervals at Grand Canal Docks

The first evening brought a unique twist to the training camp, as participants engaged in sprint intervals at night in Dublin’s Grand Canal Docks. The illuminated cityscape provided a stunning backdrop as athletes navigated through the urban environment, honing their skills under challenging conditions. The combination of darkness and the city’s vibrant atmosphere added an extra layer of excitement to the training, setting the tone for the weekend’s dynamic experiences.

Day 2: International Competition and Technical Challenges

Morning Training at Bayside:

Saturday morning featured a dedicated training session at Dublin’s Bayside, focusing on sprint qualification-style training. Participants delved into specific techniques and strategies essential for navigating and excelling in sprint qualification courses. Coaches tailored the session to address the varied needs of the international group, providing valuable insights for both seasoned orienteers and rising talents.

Afternoon Sprint Final Simulation at Tyrrelstown:

The afternoon saw participants shifting their focus to Dublin’s Tyrrelstown, where a Sprint Final Simulation awaited. This challenging course simulated the intensity and pressure of a sprint orienteering final, allowing athletes to refine their skills and tactics in a competitive setting. The simulation served as a crucial preparation step for participants aiming to apply their learnings in real-time situations.

Evening Analysis at Sport Ireland’s Headquarters

Saturday evening brought a reflective atmosphere as participants gathered at Sport Ireland’s Headquarters to analyze the training sessions so far. Coaches and athletes engaged in a comprehensive discussion, breaking down the day’s activities and evaluating individual and collective performances. The Belgian stars, renowned for their expertise in orienteering, added invaluable insights, contributing to a deeper understanding of the sport’s nuances and strategies.

Race Simulations and Technical Analysis:

Following the sprint final simulation, race simulations and technical analysis sessions continued to play a pivotal role in the day’s agenda. The Belgian and Irish teams collaborated, exchanging experiences and feedback, further enhancing the depth of understanding and camaraderie among the participants.

Day 3: International Collaboration and Recap

Sunday Morning Long Leg Training in Temple Bar and Grafton Quarter:

The morning of the final day was dedicated to long leg training, focusing on route choices in Dublin’s historic Temple Bar and Grafton Quarter. Athletes explored the intricate network of streets, squares, and landmarks, refining their decision-making skills for long legs. The historic setting added a cultural dimension to the training, showcasing the diversity of orienteering challenges.

Sunday Afternoon Knockout Sprint in Lusk:

The training camp concluded with an exhilarating Knockout Sprint in Dublin’s Lusk area. Athletes faced off in a series of head-to-head races, navigating through the terrain with speed and precision. The knockout format added an extra layer of intensity to the competition, providing a thrilling conclusion to a weekend filled with orienteering excellence.

Acknowledgments

As the training camp wrapped up, heartfelt thanks were extended to key contributors. Josh, responsible for mapping and support, played a crucial role in creating challenging and dynamic courses. Fingal Orienteers’ support was essential in facilitating the various training locations, contributing to the overall success of the camp. Special recognition was also given to Jens, Orienteering Ireland’s High-Performance Manager, for his heavy involvement and dedication to the development of the athletes. Special thanks also goes to Jeremy (Belgium) as all the courses were planned by him. He is the head organiser for EOC 2025 along with the ASOM races.

Orienteering Ireland’s Sprint Training Camp in Dublin not only elevated the sport’s skill development but also united the Belgian National Team, Irish Senior Team, and Irish Juniors in a celebration of orienteering excellence. From the nighttime sprint intervals at Grand Canal Docks to the specific training sessions at Bayside, the Sprint Final Simulation at Tyrrelstown, and the diverse challenges of Temple Bar and Grafton Quarter, the weekend showcased the participants’ adaptability and determination. The knockout sprint in Lusk provided a thrilling conclusion to a weekend filled with orienteering excitement. Heartfelt gratitude was extended to all contributors, including Josh, Fingal Orienteers, and Jens, whose support and expertise played a pivotal role in the success of the training camp. As athletes returned to their respective nations, they carried not only enhanced skills but also a sense of camaraderie that transcends borders—a testament to the unifying power of orienteering.

Please show your support and follow our Elite on social media:

Josh ( Instagram ) : @joshoshourihan, @joshoshmapping

Yannik Michiels ( Instagram ) : @yannickmichiels__

Warre ( Instagram ) : @warre.dc

Jens – High Performance Manager, Orienteering Ireland

Senior Squad selection policyTeam IrelandWorld Orienteering Championships, Edinburgh 2024

We, the selectors and High Performance Manager, are excited to announce the selection policy WOC 2024 for the Senior Orienteering Team Ireland. 

This endeavor aims to assemble a team of skilled athletes who will proudly represent our nation in upcoming competitions.

 It is imperative that all eligible athletes, current members of the Junior and Senior teams, thoroughly review the criteria to understand the expectations and requirements. 

 The comprehensive criteria for selection have been outlined in the PDF document.

 The selection process is a testament to our commitment to excellence, and we encourage every eligible athlete to participate actively.

 Your dedication and passion for orienteering are vital in shaping the success of Team Ireland.

 As the venue for the IOC Sprint has now been confirmed, please observe the immediate embargo on the IOC ‘24 sprint venue/area.

We look forward to witnessing the outstanding talents within our team and assembling a formidable Senior Orienteering Team Ireland.