The OOCup (Open Orienteering Cup) 2026 took place in Killarney National Park, Ireland from 26th July to 30th July.
The OOCup was first held as a 3 day event in Slovenia in 2002 and has since been expanded to a 5 day event. It has been held in many different countries over the years, providing technically demanding courses in scenic challenging landscapes. The 2026 OOCup in Ireland was a 5 day competition featuring intricate mountain and forest terrain. Notably, all 5 days count in the overall results as the run times for each day are added together for the overall result. A single mispunch on any day is also a disqualification for the overall result. A significant time loss on any control can knock you out of contention for the overall result. So consistancy is the key. Also, controls can be close together and on similar or same features, contrary to IOF rules. So accuracy and control number checking is essential.
This year the event was attended by nearly 2,000 competitors and was represented by 35 counties from around the world, including 172 from the UK. Charlotte and Richard Thornton, plus Freda and Ian Peirce made the trip by car and ferry. Charlotte (W80), Freda (W85) and Ian (M80) competed on all 5 days, with Richard as SARUM support.
Days 1,2&3 were on high ground, the arena being surrounded by wind farms. Days 4&5 were on lower ground in mixed intricate moor and forest.
As it happened, all 3 SARUM competitors had the same courses. The terrain was very tough under foot on all days. Freda found it difficult in the tussocks, marsh grass, gorse, heather, bracken and marshes but showed her usual determination to mostly complete each day. There were many disqualifications, particularly in the older classes, but Charlotte and Ian produced consistant performances, resulting in each of them achieving 2nd place in the overall results. So SARUM brought home 2 silver medals.
Apparently, Charlotte and Ian will now get free entry into OOCup 2027. It will be the 25th anniversay of the event and returns to Slovenia.
