Sdo Training Classes for Course Setters & Event Directors

Volunteers build every SDO event you've ever loved — and stepping into one of these roles is one of the best ways to sharpen your own orienteering skills while giving back to the club that makes this sport possible in San Diego. These two trainings are how we keep growing orienteering across San Diego County, one well-run event at a time. Each session is just a $5 donation to the club, and once you put what you learn to work — volunteering as a Course Setter or Event Director at an SDO event — you'll earn credit toward future events. 🧭

Learn more about these roles here: https://www.sandiegoorienteering.org/roles 

Course Setter Training — Sept 17: Ever wonder who designs the routes that make you second-guess your compass? That's the Course Setter. This session walks you through building courses for every skill level, choosing and placing controls out on the terrain, updating maps, and publishing course details before race day. No prior course-setting experience required — that's exactly what the training is for. Mark Prior is the instructor. THIS IS NOT A MAP MAKING COURSE.

Event Director Training — Sept 24: The Event Director keeps the whole day running — applying for permits, working with the Course Setter to lock in the event format, and coordinating all the volunteers working that day. It's a central role, but it doesn't take advanced orienteering expertise. If you're organized and like bringing people together, this training covers everything you need to run a great SDO event. Chelsea McBride is the instructor.

Sign up for one or both: Not sure which role fits you best? You don't have to pick — register for one training or grab both in a single sign-up. Plenty of our most active volunteers started with one role and came back for the second once they saw how the two fit together. Either way, you'll leave ready to help run the next SDO event.

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