MANX LOTTERY TRUST GRANTS £2,500 TO ISLE OF MAN ORIENTEERING KLUBB FOR MAPPING AND MARKING NEW ORIENTEERING LOCATIONS
Manx Lottery Trust has announced a £2,500 grant to the Isle of Man Orienteering Klubb (IOMOK) to support the remapping of South Barrule Forest and Archallagan Forests, as well as the creation of new maps for Chibbanagh Plantation and Mooragh Park.
This funding, provided through the Smaller Grants Programme, will enable IOMOK to enhance and expand orienteering opportunities across the Isle of Man.
Significant changes in footpaths, tracks, and vegetation in South Barrule and Archallagan forests, caused by recent storms, necessitate the remapping of these areas for orienteering use. Additionally, new maps will be created for Chibbanagh Plantation and Mooragh Park, where permanent orienteering markers will be placed. These updates are crucial for ensuring that orienteering activities can continue safely and effectively in these popular locations.
William Higgins, IOMOK Development Officer, will be leading the project on a voluntary basis, including the placement of permanent markers and the development of various orienteering courses. The new maps and courses will be made available for download, allowing participants to enjoy orienteering at their convenience. The mapped locations will contribute to a diverse range of venues across the Isle of Man, supporting orienteering events for years to come.
William said: “We are incredibly thankful to Manx Lottery Trust for this funding. The creation of accurate, up-to-date maps and the placement of permanent markers are essential for the continued growth and enjoyment of orienteering on the Isle of Man. This grant will allow us to enhance our current offerings and provide new opportunities for both novice and experienced orienteers.”
Stephen Turner, Chairman of Manx Lottery Trust, added: “We are pleased to support the Isle of Man Orienteering Klubb with this grant. Their dedication to providing high-quality orienteering experiences is praiseworthy, and we are excited to see how the new maps and permanent markers will enrich the orienteering community.”
The South Barrule Forest will be featured in IOMOK's Boxing Day event this year, with Chibbanagh Plantation and Mooragh Park planned for events in 2025. The new and updated orienteering venues will continue to be utilised for future events, offering enjoyable and challenging experiences for participants of all ages.
For more information about Isle of Man Orienteering Klubb and their upcoming events, please visit https://orienteering.im/.
