Frequently Asked Questions
What is MapRun?
MapRun is a navigation running game where you use a map and your phone’s GPS to find checkpoints.
Using the MapRun app, you navigate around parks, streets and bush tracks collecting checkpoints that appear on your map. When you reach a checkpoint, your phone automatically records it and awards the points.
It’s like a treasure hunt while running or walking.
Is MapRun the same as orienteering?
MapRun is based on the sport of orienteering, where participants navigate using a map to find checkpoints.
However, MapRun uses GPS and a smartphone instead of physical control flags, making it easy to run events in urban parks and suburbs. It’s a simple and accessible way for anyone to experience the fun of navigation.
Where are Sydney MapRun events held?
Sydney MapRun events take place in different suburbs across Sydney.
Courses are typically set in local parks, streets and nearby bush tracks, allowing participants to explore interesting parts of the city while running or walking.
A new map and location are released for each event.
When are Sydney MapRun events held?
Sydney MapRun events are typically held weekly, with each event taking place in a different suburb.
Event details, maps and locations are published ahead of time so participants can plan their run and download the course.
Are Sydney MapRun events suitable for beginners?
Yes — Sydney MapRun is very beginner-friendly.
Many people try MapRun with no prior navigation or orienteering experience. The maps are easy to follow and instructions are available to help you get started.
Most participants learn how it works within minutes.
What makes Sydney MapRun different from a normal fun run?
Sydney MapRun isn’t just about running — it’s about navigation, strategy and exploration.
Instead of following a fixed course, you choose your own route to collect checkpoints. Every participant takes a different path depending on their strategy.
It’s a thinking person’s run where the best route is often just as important as speed.
I’ve never done MapRun or orienteering before — can I still take part?
Absolutely.
Sydney MapRun is very beginner-friendly, and many participants try it for the first time with no prior experience. The maps are easy to follow and instructions are available to help you get started.
Most people pick it up within minutes — and quickly discover how fun it is.
Where do I get my map?
Maps are published each week on Sunday on the Eventor website https://eventor.orienteering.asn.au.
The link to each event on Eventor can be found in the on the list of Events. Use Eventor to enter the event, obtain your map on Sunday. You can run anytime from Monday through to the following Sunday.
Where do I get my PIN
To start each event MapRun will ask you for a PIN number. PIN numbers are printed on the map published on the Eventor website. https://eventor.orienteering.asn.au
What if I get lost?
It’s very unlikely you’ll get truly lost.
Most Sydney MapRun events take place in urban parks and streets, so you’re always close to familiar landmarks. If you’re unsure where you are, simply check the map in the app and reorient yourself.
Remember — exploring and figuring things out is part of the fun.
Do I need to be a fast runner?
Not at all.
Sydney MapRun isn’t just about speed — it’s about planning, navigation and having fun. Walkers, joggers and competitive runners all take part.
You can move at any pace you like and still enjoy the challenge.
Do I need a compass?
No. Most Sydney MapRun events take place on streets, parks and nature reserves, so a compass is usually not necessary.
Occasionally an event may include more bush tracks where a compass could be helpful. The map is published before each event, so you can decide whether you would like to bring one.
Are there events for all fitness levels?
Yes! Sydney MapRun is designed for everyone.
You can run or walk at your own pace and go as far as you like during the 45-minute time limit. Some participants aim to collect every checkpoint, while others simply enjoy exploring and collecting a few along the way.
It’s a fun adventure that everyone can enjoy, regardless of fitness level.
Do I have to visit checkpoints in order?
No. You can visit checkpoints in any order you like.
Planning the best route is part of the challenge. Do you go for the high-value checkpoints first, or collect the nearby ones? The strategy is up to you.
What happens if I go over 45 minutes?
You can still finish your run, but penalties apply for being late.
Late penalties are 10 points for every minute (or part minute) after the 45-minute limit. Planning a route that gets you back to the finish on time is part of the challenge.
Can I start at any time?
Most Sydney MapRun events allow you to start anytime within the advertised event window.
Your own 45-minute timer starts when you pass through the Start control, so everyone competes on the same time limit regardless of when they start.
Do I need to run or can I walk?
You can run, jog or walk — whatever suits you.
Many people enjoy Sydney MapRun as a relaxed walking adventure, while others treat it as a competitive run. The challenge works equally well at any pace.
Can families take part?
Yes! Families are very welcome.
Children can take part with parents, and many families enjoy working together to plan the route and find checkpoints. It’s a great way to explore and be active together.
How does the timing work?
Timing is handled automatically by the MapRun app using your phone’s GPS.
Your timer starts when you reach the Start control. Your phone will beep and the 45-minute countdown begins. Each checkpoint you visit is recorded automatically as you reach it.
How do I know when I reach a checkpoint?
When you reach a checkpoint:
- Your phone will beep
- The checkpoint will turn green on the map
Make sure your phone volume is turned up so you can hear the confirmation beep.
If you are using a compatible GPS watch, the watch will usually vibrate and display the control number when you reach the checkpoint.
Can I use a GPS watch?
Yes.
Some Garmin watches support the MapRun app. Once installed and synced with your event, you can record your checkpoints directly from your watch — no phone required.
If your watch doesn’t support MapRun, you can still upload your GPS track afterwards to record your route and result.
What if MapRun doesn’t record a checkpoint?
Don’t worry — it happens occasionally due to GPS accuracy.
GPS accuracy can vary from a few centimetres to several metres, so MapRun uses a 15-metre punching tolerance. This is why your phone often beeps slightly before you reach the exact checkpoint location.
If a checkpoint is missed, you can use the HITMO (Hey, I Think I Missed One) feature in the MapRun app after your run.
Sydney MapRun is all about fun, exercise and participation, so please use the HITMO function if needed. We don’t want a GPS glitch to spoil your adventure.
How do I try my first Sydney MapRun?
It’s easy:
- Download the MapRun app
- Download the event map and plan your route
- Go to the start location
- Run or walk and collect checkpoints
That’s it — your 45-minute adventure begins when you reach the Start control.
Do I need to register in advance?
Most Sydney MapRun events do not require pre-registration. You can run the event without registering, however please register after you’ve finished your run.
Simply download the map, go to the event location during the event window, and start your run using the MapRun app.
Once you’ve finished your run, remember to enter the event on the eventor website https://eventor.orienteering.asn.au.
MapRun is run by volunteers and the event fees contribute to the running of the governing bodies (Orienteering NSW & Orienteering Australia), the club’s cost to produce the map and the costs to use the MapRun app. If you dont pay, it makes it hard to continue putting on events.
Ready to try your first Sydney MapRun?
→ See upcoming events
→ Download the Map
→ Start your adventure