AFTER holding their first event at Cathedral Rock, The Northern Tablelands Orienteering Club is already ramping up for round two of activities. Keen orienteer Alex Watt said the event was thrilling. “This map is the most easterly of all the areas used by the club,” Watt said. “Although most of the map consists of cleared grazing land, it has swamps, patches of bush and rocky outcrops which make for an interesting and challenging area. “One “mature” orienteer, despite over 30 years experience, pulled up a group doing the Moderate course and tried to convince them they were lost.  “It was only when his wife arrived that he was finally convinced that he was off course and everyone else knew exactly where they were.” Although the Armidale club members dominated the shorter courses, only Don Barker (3rd, 47:27) was able to match it with the visitors.   The fastest time (39:18) was set by Justin Stafford from Newcastle, with a very competitive Bruce Meder (41:38) from Bush ‘n Beach, in second place. Watt said the Armidale competitors hope to make an impact at the next available opportunity.  “The next event will be at Mt Brown on the Torryburn Road this coming Sunday, with hard, medium and easy courses on offer,” he said. “A feature of this area is the very prevalent ‘Farmer’s Friends’ – a weed with seeds that stick to clothing.” Phone Alinta Merrotsy on 0437 926333 for all the details on the event. See the club website www.ntoc.asn.au for details on how to sign up for the map on Sunday.