Orienteering, the original adventure race, is a race against the clock combining cross country running or hiking with map reading, route selection and navigation skills. Competitors try to locate a series of checkpoints scattered across a park venue in the shortest amount of time. The sport, which requires quick wits as much as quick feet, attracts competitors of all ages and skill levels, from Boy Scouts to senior citizens.

Competitors can choose from short, beginner level courses that stick to the trails to longer, technically advanced courses that require bushwhacking off the trails.

The Oct. 7 meet will also include the longest event in the club's schedule, the annual Minnegoat, a 12-kilometer course with 26 different control points.

Instruction is available at the meet. A compass, whistle and running, walking or hiking shoes are the basic equipment needed. MNOC also has compasses to rent and whistles for sale at all events.

Event fees are $5 for non-club members and for the Minnegoat, $4 for members, and $3 for juniors 20 and under. Registration and start is from noon until 2 p.m., with a mass start for the Minnegoat at noon.

Murphy-Hanrehan is located south of the city of Savage on Murphy Lake Road. Directions to the park are available on the MNOC website, www.mnoc.org. Near the park, follow red and white signs with black arrows to the registration.