Spotlight on our University Orienteering Clubs: Aberdeen University Orienteering Club (AUOC)
29 September 2024
Want to know more about what it's like orienteering at university? We caught up with Aberdeen University Orienteering Club's President Jakub Pitula to find out more about how he and others have got involved in the club, what their highlights are from the previous year and why if you are studying there, you might consider joining!
What made you want to start/become involved with your university orienteering club?
There were multiple factors! As a fresher in Aberdeen, I immediately wanted to join a society or sports club to meet new people and get involved. Orienteering was relatively new to me and I’ve never even run before, but I’ve heard good things about the sport so I decided to give it a try. It was a great idea! I’ve made many friends and had the motivation and countless opportunities to visit and explore areas outside of the city!
You also incorporate trail running within the club, how do you manage this around orienteering activities and events?
We aim to organise trail running trips once every two weeks so that it doesn’t clash with any orienteering activities - members can choose whether they want to go trail running, orienteering or both. Those activities have a lot in common, so many people fancying one sport will likely enjoy the other one as well!
How long has the club been running?
The club has been running for over 10 years.
Typically, how often do you meet as a group? How do you factor things in like travel? (For those that may be worried about access to transport to get to events/activities etc – if relevant)
We typically meet 1-2 times a week for training sessions, social runs or events. Most of our local sessions take place around the university and for trips further away we aim to pick places reachable by public transport. For some years we haven’t had a driver in the club, but even that wasn’t a problem, as friendly members of other local clubs were usually happy to give us a lift to events further afield! This year things will be even easier, as one of our members has a car and is happy to drive our members.
What advice would you give to freshers/newcomers to the sport?
Don’t be afraid and give it a go. There are many experienced orienteers in the club who will guide, teach and take care of you. Nobody is ever left behind.
Can you share any of your highlights as a club over the past year?
Over the last few years, we particularly enjoyed big events like BUCS and Scottish Student Championships (which were held by our club last year!). To be fair, every trip to a local event is a highlight on its own, as it brings people together and gives a welcome break from the busy student life.
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