Wouldn’t that be SO?
NO, SOAR stands for Suncoast Orienteering and Adventure Racing. We have hosted some bike orienteering and rogaines, and this year, we expect to hold our first canoe orienteering event. However, we mostly do good old ‘foot orienteering’. We are a registered non-profit club known as Suncoast Orienteering, Inc.
We started operating in 2012 as a wing of Florida Orienteering, but in 2014, we incorporated and moved out onto our own. We have continued to grow ever since. From an original three events a year, this year, we will be hosting eleven events from October 2024 to April 2025.
The events feature different length courses based on navigating to a series of checkpoints (controls). You can race (run) the course for speed or take your time (walk). It’s up to you.
The common theme is that participants use a detailed map and a compass for navigation. A GPS device is not needed, and it is not even allowed except to record your route.
Events are family-friendly and usually dog-friendly, too; however, this depends on the venue (some have pet rules). Courses vary in length from about 2.5 kilometers (1.7 miles) for a novice-level course to an 8-9 kilometer (5-5.5 mile) expert course.
Entry fees are low and reasonable, usually at most $10 for pre-registration or $15 for on-site, day-of-the-event registration, which includes a map for navigation. Some events have a park entry fee. Compasses and electronic finger sticks for checking in at each control marker are available to rent. However, many choose to own their own compasses and finger sticks.
At most of our events, you will see a lot of high school-age students. Chances are they are competing in the JROTC side of the competition. At each event, they are there to compete for medals, trophies, and ranking points. Some people come to our orienteering events to watch the JROTC competition. Well, they are parents and friends of the cadets who are there to watch the action. SOAR is a registered not-for-profit club. We are proud to be able to support Florida teams and individuals with grants to support trips to National Championships and participation on National Teams. Please contact us if you think you or your team may be eligible for a Suncoast Orienteering travel grant.