Vanier Park WJR Why Just Run
February 22nd 2026 10:00am - 1:00pm
Organizers: Jonathan Harris (Event Director), Stan Woods (Coach), Joanne Woods (Membership), Chris Benn (Controller), Dawn Lessowai (Coach)
Map: Vanier Park
Briefing
Please come out and join us for our first WJR of the season at Vanier Park, located next to Kits Beach and providing a forgiving environment for those looking to try the sport for the first time.
Schedule
- 9:30-10:30 Registration
- 10:00-11:00 Starts
- 12:00 Course closure (You must be back by this time even if you have not completed your course!)
Coaching will be available for beginners. Please arrive early in the registration window if you would like to receive instruction.
Registration
The deadline for registering is Friday, February 20th at midnight.
Courses
Vanier Park is a relatively non-technical map, so if you are a runner with some navigation experience, you will likely be able to complete any course you choose - the real challenge comes in planning ahead while moving quickly! Distances given are straight-line between checkpoints, so expect to run about 1.2-1.5x further depending on course and route choice.
- Beginner: ~1.3 kms - Suitable for those new to navigation or families with young children.
- Novice: ~2.5 kms - More decisions to be made between control locations, but still suitable for adults new to orienteering or older children.
- Intermediate: ~3.4 kms - A condensed version of the advanced course, offering a taste of the full map.
- Advanced: ~5.1 kms - Sprinterval-esque course focused on reading ahead in preparation for our upcoming Sprint Camp.
Access
The start location next to Kits Beach Park is easily accessible by bike and transit. EasyPark Lot 66 is a convenient option for those driving to the event.
Volunteers
We are looking for a few volunteers to help out with collecting controls and general logistics. No experience or special skills required - if you are available to help please email yj9harris@gmail.com. You can still run!
Why Just Run
What should I bring? Wear something comfortable that you don't mind getting a little dirty! If it's wet outside, you might want to consider a change of shoes and socks! A compass is optional (we have extra ones for borrowing). For added safety, a whistle is mandatory for all GVOC events. Read more in the WJR Introduction to Orienteering.
How much does it cost? Regular "Why Just Run:" events cost adult: $15 / under 20: $10/ family discount (adult(s) with children) 40% (we now accept credit and debit cards on site). Some special events may cost a little more, and this will be made clear in the event detail above. Annual club membership is also required.
Club membership: See details on the club home page. Please complete before your first event!
Refunds: If a participant is unable to attend an event for any reason the event organizer may refund the event fees (at their discretion) but the processing fees will not be refunded. If an event is changed or cancelled by GVOC and participants request a refund, the processing fees will be refunded.