Cambridge University
Orienteering Club

Cuppers

Cuppers is our annual inter-college competition and a newcomer-friendly event. Join us to race around the West Cambridge Site, CMS, Churchill College and Astronomy site.

Orienteering is a sport involving racing a set course in the fastest time possible, navigating your way between controls (checkpoints) using a map. The races will be suitable for everyone and there will be a practice course for those new to the sport, as well as plenty of experienced orienteers who are more than willing to lend a hand! Typically orienteers compete individually, but newcomers are welcome to take part in pairs or small groups. Wear clothes/shoes you are happy to run in and we will provide everything else you need!

Please sign up here ideally before the end of 8/5/25 so we can print enough maps. You can still enter after this point, or even just show up on the day, but signing up in advance saves us some hassle! The event is free for University of Cambridge students.

We will be meeting at 10:30 (NB changed from 11) near the cavendish lab here. Here you will find, the finish, newcomer practice course start and registration/download. You are welcome to leave your bags etc here while you run. The starts for the Cuppers' courses are located a short (800m) walk/jog from there, at the CMS. There is ample bike parking. Starts will close at 11:30.

To have a competitive team, you will need to find at least three runners from your college (for mixed colleges this should include at least one runner on each of the M/W courses). There are also individual trophies up for grabs and theres no requirement to field a full team to take part.

*Optimal route, expect to run this or a bit longer

Please note that there are 2 times-out road crossings on the M and W courses, where the courses cross Madingley road. You must cross at the traffic lights. Your time taken for the legs crossing the road will not count towards your total time, so theres no need to rush!

We will be using SI electronic punching, please bring your dibber if you have one, or you can borrow one if not.

Orienteers from outside of the university are welcome to attend, with an entry fee of £5 to help cover the event levy and map printing costs. Please enter in advance, and find payment details on the sign up form. Note that this will be a fairly low-key event, with an outdoor assembly and no toilets. If arriving by car please park at Madingley Park and Ride, there may be on street car parking available on Clerk Maxwell Road.

Regrettably, due to road crossings, no under 16s may take part.