May 14, 2014

Rabbit O 2014!



I will be directing the Eleventh Annual Rabbit Creek Orienteering Meet near Murphy on Sunday May 18th, with starts from 10AM to Noon.  The advanced course will be a similar format as last year. It is basically a classic course with a 3 hour time limit but the 21 controls can be taken in any order.  (Over 3 hours is a DQ.)
The intermediate course will be a traditional classic course (controls taken in order). A beginners course will also be available for those new to the sport.

Lunch will be provided (while supplies last!  Based on previous attendance). It will be catered by Heavenly Ham courtesy of Boehringer Ingelheim (one of my generous vendors).  Potluck dishes are welcome to supplement the main course!

Cost: $5/map or $7/group at race start.  Free for CTOC members.

Recommended supplies:
1. your preferred compass - a baseplate or thumb compass works best for orienteering.
2. shoes for off trail navigation.
3. pants and/or gaitors as desired to handle high desert grass and rocks.  Fence hopping is likely.
4. water and food as you might need for 3 hours in the sun.  (Usually there is a water control on the longer courses too.)
5. hat/sunscreen.
6. whistle for emergencies (when cell is not available - this is the Owyhees).

And...for you birders, be sure to bring your binoculars.  The orioles and buntings are all hanging out at the main house, an oasis in the desert.

Map link.  Directions to the meet:
    Scale: 1:10000, 5m contours
    Area: 3.4 sq. Km.
    Fieldcheck: 2004-2012 Bill Pilcher, base USGS 1985
    Terrain: Mostly Open, Rocky, Rolling Owyhee Foothills.
    Directions:
    From Boise take I-84 west to Nampa (exit #35). Turn Left and proceed to 3rd Street S (Caldwell Blvd). Turn Left on 3rd Street S (Caldwell Blvd) and proceed to 12th Ave. Turn Right on 12th Ave. Follow 12th Ave. south and it becomes Hwy 45 as it leaves Nampa city limits. Follow Hwy 45 across the Snake River. Soon after crossing the river, bear to the left and it becomes Hwy 78. Follow Hwy 78 to milepost 29. Immediately after passing the "Murphy" city limits sign turn to the Right on "Old Hwy 45" follow this for one block then continue straight and it becomes " Rabbit Creek Road". Follow Rabbit Creek Road for about 5 1/2 miles to J & S Road there is a lone mailbox. Turn Left on J&S Road and follow this road approximately 1 1/2 miles to the house and sign in area.
    Bill Pilcher