Family-friendly competition was had at South Barrule during the Isle of Man Orienteering Championships.

The annual event attracted a number of competitors of varying age groups with some joining from the UK for the 7 Kingdoms Isle of Man Orienteering Championships.

Using maps, the participants had to navigate their way in sequence through a set of control points, consisting of orange and white flags, at the newly mapped South Barrule plantation.

The aim was to complete the course in the quickest time.

There were three different levels, guaranteeing the Isle of Man Orienteering ethos: ’family-friendly competitive fun, your choice to walk or run’.

The ’tough’ championships stretched over 4.3km (2.7 miles), had a 180m climb with 16 controls.

The intermediate level was 3.4km (just over two miles), a 150m climb with 12 controls.

The novice level was 2.5km (1.5miles), and had a 75m climb with 10 controls near the major paths in the plantation.

A spokesman of Isle of Man Orienteering Klubb said: ’There was a cracking turnout of families trying out the novice course, and more adventurous folks taking on the intermediate challenge.

Reigning champion was Tony Udris from South Yorkshire Orienteers. He took the top spot completing the course in 48 minutes 15 seconds. Second place went to Chris Littler from the UK. Mr Littler, who has been supporting the development of the activity here, finished five minutes 25 seconds clear of local man Andy Watson.

Isle of Man Orienteering thanked supporters: the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, Year of Our Island, Mylchreests Group, Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and Green Mann Spring for supplying drinking water on the day.

The next orienteering event is on Boxing Day at 10.30am and will use a different course at South Barrule plantation.