What is the duration?
The traditional rogaine is 24 hours in duration. However, there are
also shorter events of 6, 8 and 12 hours. Most events are located
within a two hour drive of major cities. Rogaines are held on foot in
picturesque bush and farmland locations, however, some events are held
in metropolitan areas (Metrogaines), on bikes (Cyclogaines) and on
cross-country skis (Snogaines).
Rogaining is a real adventure sport and is a lot of fun.
Who is it for?
Rogaining is a team activity for people of all ages and levels of
fitness. Everyone from elite athletes to families with young children
can enjoy rogaining. New rogainers are always welcome and event
organisers are willing to help you get started. The parts of the course
you visit are entirely up to you and your team members. There are no
set routes and you don’t have to spend the whole time on the course.
You can even return to the Hash House at anytime for some hot food and
rest around the campfire, or even a sleep, before heading out again.
Some competitive teams may cover 50 km in a 12 hour event and even more
in an event of 24 hours duration. However, the distance you travel is
entirely up to you. The satisfaction comes in finding your way around
the course according to the route that you have chosen, and navigating
back to the finish within the time limit.
What do you need?
Rogaining is good value for money; all you need is basic bushwalking
gear including a compass, whistle, pencil, water bottle, comfortable
and warm clothes and shoes, and a basic team first aid kit. On 12 and
24 hour events you may also wish to bring along camping gear and spend
some time resting overnight at the Hash House.
What does it cost?
Entry fees vary from $20 to $80, depending on the event. This covers
hot food during and at the finish of the event, your map, information sheets and facilities
at the Hash House.
How does it work?
Between 1 and 3 hours (depending on the length of the event) before the
start of the event, each participant receives a map of the course with
all the checkpoints marked on it. They also receive a description of
the checkpoints and their point values. Teams choose their own route to
get to whichever checkpoints they want. It is important to get back
before the time limit expires as there are hefty point penalties for
being late. At each checkpoint there is a punch to make a hole at the
corresponding numbered square on the control card. Rogaining is a team
sport and the team MUST stay together at all times