Participant Information
Level 2
General Info:
Welcome to SOGO Adventure Running!
We want you to enjoy adventure running as much as we do so we have developed a program that will suit all ages and abilities and be tons of fun!
All of our activities are based on Orienteering Canada's Long Term Athlete Development Plan and have been put together by a group of experienced orienteers and adventure runners to provide your kids with the best possible program that we can offer.
Welcome to SOGO Adventure Running!
We want you to enjoy adventure running as much as we do so we have developed a program that will suit all ages and abilities and be tons of fun!
All of our activities are based on Orienteering Canada's Long Term Athlete Development Plan and have been put together by a group of experienced orienteers and adventure runners to provide your kids with the best possible program that we can offer.
First Night and Session Layout:
On your first night at SOGO make your way to the registration tables. You will receive your pinnie which you will wear for the remainder of the season and any SOGO swag you ordered.
All the level 2 pinnies are black and there will be a black bucket by the central meeting spot where you can leave your water bottles/jackets etc. Level 2 is different from level 1 in that they don’t rotate through stations; the coach will have one or two longer exercises for the kids to do that incorporates all the elements of level 1 with an emphasis on navigation.
There will be a sign in sheet that the kids must punch in and out of (we will explain this to them on the first night). It’s especially important that kids punch out so we know they came back to the meeting area with the group.
On your first night at SOGO make your way to the registration tables. You will receive your pinnie which you will wear for the remainder of the season and any SOGO swag you ordered.
All the level 2 pinnies are black and there will be a black bucket by the central meeting spot where you can leave your water bottles/jackets etc. Level 2 is different from level 1 in that they don’t rotate through stations; the coach will have one or two longer exercises for the kids to do that incorporates all the elements of level 1 with an emphasis on navigation.
There will be a sign in sheet that the kids must punch in and out of (we will explain this to them on the first night). It’s especially important that kids punch out so we know they came back to the meeting area with the group.
SOGO is unlike many other sports programs in that SOGO groups move locations from month to month so kids have a chance to run in different terrain. Details about these different locations are found on the locations tab.
Equipment:
At SOGO most of our activities run the kids through trees and long grass so it’s important to be wearing the appropriate clothing
Coaches will explain how to use the whistles appropriately should someone get lost.
Lost and found note:
We keep a lost and found throughout the season where we collect items that have been left behind so if you are missing something please check the lost and found bin the following week. We will periodically post an image with all the lost and found items to our facebook page which you should check to see if anything of your child's is in. We do not keep lost and found items past the end of the season so make sure to pick them up by the last night.
How to wear layers
Trail Running Shoes
If you don’t already have a decent pair of running shoes for SOGO here are someplace you can buy some:
The following is a list of shoes that we recommend.
At SOGO most of our activities run the kids through trees and long grass so it’s important to be wearing the appropriate clothing
- A whistle - this is very important as the level 2s will be running further away from the central meeting area than the level 1s
- Long pants are recommended all season to avoid scratches
- Water bottle, labelled with name
- Trail running shoes – it can be muddy at SOGO so shoes with a good tread are necessary
- SOGO pinnie
- Warm jacket – at the beginning of the season it may still be cold so bring a light wind shell or fleece jacket with a short or long sleeved layer underneath so you can layer up or down depending on the activity or weather
- Toques, gloves or buffs which can be stored in the coloured bins at the meeting area
- Headlamp later in the season when it becomes dark
Coaches will explain how to use the whistles appropriately should someone get lost.
Lost and found note:
We keep a lost and found throughout the season where we collect items that have been left behind so if you are missing something please check the lost and found bin the following week. We will periodically post an image with all the lost and found items to our facebook page which you should check to see if anything of your child's is in. We do not keep lost and found items past the end of the season so make sure to pick them up by the last night.
How to wear layers
- Start with a base layer to wear close to your skin such as polyester or merino wool. Try to stay away from cotton-based clothing; it retains moisture and makes for cold kids.
- Add a second layer for warmth; a wool, polyester or nylon long sleeved shirt
- The third layer will be the insulating one such as a warm fleece or a down jacket. Down jackets are a good thing to wear when you arrive at SOGO but running in them may lead to overheating
- The last layer is an outer shell such as a thin rain jacket
- Layers are important, especially for running outside
Trail Running Shoes
If you don’t already have a decent pair of running shoes for SOGO here are someplace you can buy some:
- MEC
- Sport Check
- Strides Running Store (locations in Marda Loop and Fish Creek)
- Gord's Running Store on Centre St just north of downtown
The following is a list of shoes that we recommend.
| Name | Photo | Where to Buy Them | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon XA Pro 3D CSWP Shoes |  | MEC | $69 |
| Keen Chandler CNX | 
 | MEC | $59 |
| Merrell Chameleon Low Lace Waterproof | 
 | MEC | $69 |
| Columbia Redmond Explore Waterproof |   | MEC | $69 |
| Saucony Zealot Kid's Grade-School Running Shoes |  | Sport Check | $56 |
| Asics Gel Noosa Tri 9 Athletic Shoes Grade School Girls |  | Sport Check | $100 |
Volunteering:
Our program runs on volunteers and we couldn’t do it without you so thank you! If you haven’t signed up to volunteer yet, and you would like to, we would love to hear from you! Deanne Stephen SOGO program director
We have two volunteer training sessions:
As always we really appreciate the work that you all put in as volunteers!
Our program runs on volunteers and we couldn’t do it without you so thank you! If you haven’t signed up to volunteer yet, and you would like to, we would love to hear from you! Deanne Stephen SOGO program director
We have two volunteer training sessions:
- Tuesday, August 30th 6:30 - 8pm Bowness Park
- Tuesday, September 6th 6:30 - 8pm Fish Creek - Bebo Grove.
As always we really appreciate the work that you all put in as volunteers!
SOGO Code and Behaviour Policy
In adventure running, as in life, it is important to be respectful of everyone around us and to follow some simple common sense rules to get the most out of what we are doing. With that in mind we have created the following SOGO Code for all our adventure runners to follow. Play smart, play safe!
SOGO Code
SOGO kids have too much fun to misbehave at our sessions and by following the SOGO code above everyone will be able to enjoy the program as much as possible. If, however, a child does misbehave we will follow our behaviour policy - which you were required to agree to when registering - to take the appropriate steps.
You can review the behaviour policy on our policy page. Remember that ongoing failure to follow the rules outlined in the policy will result in being asked to leave the SOGO program.
In adventure running, as in life, it is important to be respectful of everyone around us and to follow some simple common sense rules to get the most out of what we are doing. With that in mind we have created the following SOGO Code for all our adventure runners to follow. Play smart, play safe!
SOGO Code
- If anyone sees a hurt runner they will stay with them and send someone to get help
- Be wary of dogs: if a dog doesn't look safe, wait for a coach or find another way to go around the dog
- Follow all instructions given by coaches
- Treat other athletes, coaches and parents with respect
- Include everybody in the group equally
- Be kind to everyone - no matter the age, race, gender or religion
- Once you are at a control, step away so you don't hide it from other kids
- Be aware of out-of-bounds areas marked on the map: they are there to keep runners, vegetation and wildlife safe
- Do not damage the environment (including leaving sticks and plants in their place) and do not leave any litter behind.
- Always look where you're going when running over rough terrain
- Thank the coaches
- Have fun!
SOGO kids have too much fun to misbehave at our sessions and by following the SOGO code above everyone will be able to enjoy the program as much as possible. If, however, a child does misbehave we will follow our behaviour policy - which you were required to agree to when registering - to take the appropriate steps.
You can review the behaviour policy on our policy page. Remember that ongoing failure to follow the rules outlined in the policy will result in being asked to leave the SOGO program.
First Aid:
There will be several first aid kits at every session for any accidents that may occur. One will always be located at the meeting area and coaches that take their group away from the station will carry one. Coaches also have bandaids and cream in their vest pockets for small scrapes. Coaches will be aware of any medical needs of the kids in their groups, based on any issues you may have indicated during registration. If you forgot to mention something on your registration that may help your child enjoy SOGO more safely please email [email protected] and she can update your registration.
Staff members on site each week have basic first-aid training and certification.
There will be several first aid kits at every session for any accidents that may occur. One will always be located at the meeting area and coaches that take their group away from the station will carry one. Coaches also have bandaids and cream in their vest pockets for small scrapes. Coaches will be aware of any medical needs of the kids in their groups, based on any issues you may have indicated during registration. If you forgot to mention something on your registration that may help your child enjoy SOGO more safely please email [email protected] and she can update your registration.
Staff members on site each week have basic first-aid training and certification.
Weather Policy:
In general, SOGO kids and their coaches are tough! We run in the rain, snow, wind, or sunshine. If Environment Canada issues a Weather Warning for extreme wind or lightning we MAY cancel a session. The head coach will assess how the warning affects the specific SOGO location and decide if the session will be cancelled (we all know how localized weather systems can be in Calgary).
SOGO takes place in City and Provincial Parks and operates with permits. As such, Calgary or Alberta Parks may revoke a permit if a specific park is closed or unsafe for us to run in.
If we do cancel a session we will let you know via email at least 2 hours prior to the start of your program. On days where the weather is questionable please check your e-mail before leaving the house to see if the session is still on.
Please see our policy page for our complete policy on weather related cancellations.
Temperature can be an issue during the early spring sessions, please always dress for the changing weather conditions, particularly for 6:30 programs which can be cool. It is always a good idea to have something warm to put on after the session.
Dressing for the changing Calgary climate can be tricky. We will do our best to give helpful suggestions via email and Facebook. Dressing to be comfortable outside can take time and often can mean a few small, carefully chosen, purchases. We ask that you do your best to have kids dress appropriately for SOGO but we realize it takes time. Ask your kids, “How did that choice work for you tonight? What could you do differently next time?” If you are at all unsure about clothing choices, please don’t hesitate to ask
In general, SOGO kids and their coaches are tough! We run in the rain, snow, wind, or sunshine. If Environment Canada issues a Weather Warning for extreme wind or lightning we MAY cancel a session. The head coach will assess how the warning affects the specific SOGO location and decide if the session will be cancelled (we all know how localized weather systems can be in Calgary).
SOGO takes place in City and Provincial Parks and operates with permits. As such, Calgary or Alberta Parks may revoke a permit if a specific park is closed or unsafe for us to run in.
If we do cancel a session we will let you know via email at least 2 hours prior to the start of your program. On days where the weather is questionable please check your e-mail before leaving the house to see if the session is still on.
Please see our policy page for our complete policy on weather related cancellations.
Temperature can be an issue during the early spring sessions, please always dress for the changing weather conditions, particularly for 6:30 programs which can be cool. It is always a good idea to have something warm to put on after the session.
Dressing for the changing Calgary climate can be tricky. We will do our best to give helpful suggestions via email and Facebook. Dressing to be comfortable outside can take time and often can mean a few small, carefully chosen, purchases. We ask that you do your best to have kids dress appropriately for SOGO but we realize it takes time. Ask your kids, “How did that choice work for you tonight? What could you do differently next time?” If you are at all unsure about clothing choices, please don’t hesitate to ask
SOGO Swag:
Each Season SOGO offers branded SOGO items: technical t-shirts $15, cozy SOGO hoodies $35 and SOGO toques$25. Items are sold in junior and adult sizes. SOGO Swag is ordered on your Zone 4 registration and delivered on the first night. Limited items will be available on the first night for purchase and size exchanges. Sweatshirts fit short so please consider buying one size up from what you expect. Boy on right below is wearing an adult small and the girl is wearing a youth large. T-shirts fit big and hats come on only small or large.
* All SOGO SWAG items are optional.
Each Season SOGO offers branded SOGO items: technical t-shirts $15, cozy SOGO hoodies $35 and SOGO toques$25. Items are sold in junior and adult sizes. SOGO Swag is ordered on your Zone 4 registration and delivered on the first night. Limited items will be available on the first night for purchase and size exchanges. Sweatshirts fit short so please consider buying one size up from what you expect. Boy on right below is wearing an adult small and the girl is wearing a youth large. T-shirts fit big and hats come on only small or large.
* All SOGO SWAG items are optional.
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Late Registration:
For those programs that have available spaces late registration will be accepted until Sept 16th at midnight.
For those programs that have available spaces late registration will be accepted until Sept 16th at midnight.
Races this Season:
SOGO Spook O
An annual SOGO fall event.
Date: Saturday, October 29th 2016
Location: TBA
What it is: SOGO Spook-O is spooky navigation based run based in a city park. Kids can dress-up and come anytime in the afternoon/evening to make their way around the course with their parents, siblings and/or friends. A meal, games and crafts follows inside. Tickets will be available online middle of September. More information will be coming via email and Facebook.
Confederation Park Relay
Date: Sunday October 16th, 2016
Time: Noon - 2pm
Location: Confederation Park
What it is: The Calgary Road Runners hosts a series of cross country running events in the fall. Confederation relay is a 3-person event where each team member runs a 4 km figure-eight course on groomed grass, loads of hills, with a shallow creek crossing. Each team member runs the same route. Soup and home baked items follow the run in the Rosemont Community centre. SOGO coaches will help kids make teams. We have reserved for 7 teams so 21 runners can participate, an email will be sent out early September to give all the details, if your SOGOer is interested you can let us know at that point and they will have a spot on one of the teams. This is a family event where parents can enter and there is a younger kids’ 1 km course is on groomed grass. Confederation Park Team Relay details can be found - here
Wednesday Night Events
Dates: May - September 2016
Foothills Orienteering (our parent organization) has an event every Wednesday at various parks around the city (north, south and central) with four different courses for the different levels of abilities. They range from course 1 being the easiest (equivalent to a usual navigation station at a regular night of SOGO) to course 4 being the hardest. Everyone is welcome!
SOGO Spook O
An annual SOGO fall event.
Date: Saturday, October 29th 2016
Location: TBA
What it is: SOGO Spook-O is spooky navigation based run based in a city park. Kids can dress-up and come anytime in the afternoon/evening to make their way around the course with their parents, siblings and/or friends. A meal, games and crafts follows inside. Tickets will be available online middle of September. More information will be coming via email and Facebook.
Confederation Park Relay
Date: Sunday October 16th, 2016
Time: Noon - 2pm
Location: Confederation Park
What it is: The Calgary Road Runners hosts a series of cross country running events in the fall. Confederation relay is a 3-person event where each team member runs a 4 km figure-eight course on groomed grass, loads of hills, with a shallow creek crossing. Each team member runs the same route. Soup and home baked items follow the run in the Rosemont Community centre. SOGO coaches will help kids make teams. We have reserved for 7 teams so 21 runners can participate, an email will be sent out early September to give all the details, if your SOGOer is interested you can let us know at that point and they will have a spot on one of the teams. This is a family event where parents can enter and there is a younger kids’ 1 km course is on groomed grass. Confederation Park Team Relay details can be found - here
Wednesday Night Events
Dates: May - September 2016
Foothills Orienteering (our parent organization) has an event every Wednesday at various parks around the city (north, south and central) with four different courses for the different levels of abilities. They range from course 1 being the easiest (equivalent to a usual navigation station at a regular night of SOGO) to course 4 being the hardest. Everyone is welcome!
We look forward to seeing you at SOGO this season!
As always if you have any questions or concerns at all, don’t hesitate to email Deanne Stephen, program director
As always if you have any questions or concerns at all, don’t hesitate to email Deanne Stephen, program director
