Fall Radio-O Beginner Classes
Learn Radio Orienteering (ARDF) — Beginner Training Series (80m) Oct 4, 11, and 18
Learn Radio Orienteering the way the pros learned it. You have seen the Radio Orienteers at our events, and now is your chance to get a taste of this sport in a controlled, easy to understand way. You don’t need a radio license, or any special equipment, just a desire to try this variation on orienteering. (Joseph was on an African safari and used his radio-O skills to help the driver track a rare leopard so we could find her in the wild.)
Nadia Scharlau, KO4ADV, started radio-O at 13, became a world champion, and later taught beginners who went on to become world champions. She still uses the same no-frustration, step-by-step approach she learned 40+ years ago. Now you can learn that way, too.
Who it’s for: Newcomers who want to learn how the sport is played, with emphasis on using a radio direction-finding receiver. Past beginners seeking a refresher are welcome.
Cost: Free • Registration required (class size limited to 12).
Exact meeting points, parking details, and prep info are provided when you register.
Essentials
- What: Radio Orienteering Beginner Training on the 80m band (equipment provided)
- When: Three Saturdays — Oct 4, 11, 18, 11:00 AM–2:00 PM (arrive by 11:00 AM)
- Where:
- Oct 4: Just north of Durham in Bahama, NC
- Oct 11 & 18: Falls Lake — Highway 50 boat ramp
Click on registration for exact addresses & parking instructions.
How the series works
- There are two unique class sessions with new material (offered all three days: Oct 4, 11, and 18).
- A short solo practice course to hone your new skills.
- New concepts are introduced in sequence, but you can attend whatever dates you can; key concepts are reviewed each session.
- We’ll hike the courses together as a group—please arrive on time to avoid missing the start.
Session Sequence
- Class 1: Short beginner course with constantly operating transmitters — learn to use your receiver.
- Class 2: Longer beginner course with “cycling” transmitters — learn to locate radio-O “foxes” efficiently.
- Class 3: Solo practice on a short cycling 80m beginner course.
Instructors: Nadia, KO4ADV and Charles, NZØI
Ready to join?
A short 80m classic practice course will be set up each week, which experienced radio orienteers can use for practice. Everyone needs to register.