As dusk fell on Tuesday, 150 orienteers departed from the Fat Cat pub to take on the dimly lit streets of Kelham Island.

The racers, young and old, using maps, compasses, and head torches, had until 8:45 PM to navigate the streets and finish their selected courses. 

The Kelham Island night race is a yearly event, hosted by the South Yorkshire Orienteers (SYO), a club with members ranging in age from 5 to 85. The SYO frequently hosts events for newcomers and seasoned orienteers alike. 

“The background for this is to help runners to be able to read maps,” said Tim Tett, a member of the SYO since 1982, who has organized the event for the past 14 years.  

He added: “The other events require you to be able read a map so this is a good introduction.”

The event offered three courses, with varying distances and controls: the long course, at 7.3 km and 32 controls; the medium course, at 4.4 km and 20 controls; and the short course, at 2.5 km and 18 controls.

The controls, or waypoints throughout the course participants must find using the map, were placed in various random locations such as alleyways and car parks.

“For newcomers, go for the shortest course, they’re generally but not always easiest,” said Mr Tett. “You should contact the organizer to see which is easier.”

First-time racer Jayden Jordan-Wells found the medium course to be “tough but fun.”

“I’d say this is definitely a good course for beginners,” said Mr Jordan-Wells. “My advice to newcomers: Go with someone who knows how to read a map.” 

The course went through various landmarks in Kelham Island such as the River Don, the Kelham Island Tavern, and Edward Street Park. The racers finished at the Fat Cat pub for a beer social.

“These orienteers come from all walks of life,” said Mr Tett. “I’d describe them as being a bit eccentric. There’s four or five year-olds to people who go around with sticks aged 90 and above. The main thing is that it’s a sport for all.”