n.
Cross-country footrace in which each participant uses a map and compass to navigate between checkpoints along an unfamiliar course.
Introduced in Sweden in 1918, it later spread throughout Europe. World championships have been held since 1966. Runners set out at intervals; the winner is the runner who completes the course in the fastest time. Orienteering is also practiced by cyclists, canoeists, horseback riders, and skiers.