Andreorientering

Andreorientering is a Swedish term that translates to "reorientation" or "second orientation" and is most commonly associated with the sport of orienteering. In the context of competitive orienteering, it refers to a situation where a competitor has become significantly lost or has missed a control point and needs to re-establish their bearings and plot a new course to continue the race. This often involves stopping, consulting their map and compass, and carefully planning an alternative route to the next control. It is a critical skill for orienteers, as even experienced individuals can make mistakes.

The need for andreorientering can arise from various factors, including navigational errors, misinterpreting the terrain, or encountering unexpected obstacles. Successfully executing andreorientering requires a strong understanding of map reading, compass use, and spatial awareness. It demands a calm and methodical approach, as panic can exacerbate the situation. While not a formal part of the rules, it is an accepted and necessary element of the sport. Competitors who can effectively perform andreorientering are often more resilient and have a better chance of completing the course despite initial setbacks. The ability to adapt and recalculate a route is a key differentiator between a struggling competitor and one who can recover and still achieve a good result.