The Clock is Ticking: Quid Games II Set to Storm the Castle at Kendal Mountain Festival

This isn’t just another race, it’s a bold reimagining of what orienteering can be, even on a localised club scale. With a course that opens locations never before used for the sport, and a format designed to engage both seasoned members and curious newcomers, Quid Games II is designed to spark conversation across the running world.

The event will feature 175 competitors navigating a 60-minute score course through Kendal’s streets, slopes and green spaces. But the buzz begins long before then. From 5:30pm, the event village opens at Base Camp, offering participants a vibrant atmosphere with music from the Passenger DJ bus, giveaways from top brands, and food and drink outlets ready to serve.

Images: Nathan Phua.

Earlier in the day, festival-goers can attend an ‘All Things Orienteering’ talk in the Festival Village, setting the tone for an evening of celebration and competition. Then, as the sun sets, the race begin, energised by Red Bull DJ booths stationed out on the course and checkpoints sponsored by major names including Garmin, Asics, Maurten, Silva, and Gore-Tex. Many of these locations will offer branded goodies and surprises for all, adding a layer of excitement to every control.

The event has and continues to draw attention from across the athletic spectrum, with big names from trail running, fell racing and endurance sport joining the start list, alongside 16 of our own GB orienteering athletes. It’s a rare moment where elite performance meets grassroots energy, all under the spotlight of a major outdoor festival.

Importantly, professional content teams from across the brands will be present throughout the event, capturing the action, atmosphere and stories that unfold. This material will be used to create new resources and promotional content that clubs and members across the country can tap into, showcasing orienteering as the adventurous, dynamic sport it truly is. Whether you're looking to attract newcomers, promote your own events, or simply share the spirit of the sport, this content will be a valuable tool for the whole community.

While the scale of the event is intentionally intimate, its impact is expected to be far-reaching. Quid Games II is part of British Orienteering’s strategic ambition to change the perception of the sport, making it more visible, more vibrant, and more relevant to new audiences and potential partners.

None of this would be possible without the generous support of the brands who have thrown their weight behind the vision. Most notably, SportsShoes, our co-creator and lead supporter, whose commitment to bringing orienteering into the limelight has been instrumental in turning this concept into reality.

As the countdown continues, excitement builds. Quid Games II is not just a race - it’s a statement. And it’s one the whole sport should be proud of.