FearnochWed 28 May, 2025
Local level event
Explanation of Event levels
Local events are usually low key and in the 'localised' area, ideal for newcomers to try the sport and Activities are non competitive events used for training and coaching, aimed at members of the club, but they can attract people from neighbouring clubs, and are often ideal for newcomers to try the sport. Regional events attract participants from around the local Region, National events are high quality competitions that will attract people from far away, Major events are Major Events such as a British Championships.
Results
Report
EckO’s second mountain bike event in 2025 involved a short 4.4km around the tracks of Fearnoch, part of Adventure Oban’s Big Bike Weekend fringe programme.
Competitors enjoyed a bright, dry evening with just enough breeze and sunshine to keep the midges away for those not on two wheels, until the sun disappeared.
Thanks to Alan for the preparatory work and maps, Sarah Hunt for permissions, Ross, Andy, Jan and Bill for registration/download, and to Dave for marshalling between controls 13 and 14.
John.
Pre Event Info
As part of Adventure Oban's Big Bike Weekend, we are offering a short Mountain Bike Orienteering course at Fearnoch on the evening of 28th May.
Location Info
Near: Taynuilt Lat,Lng: 56.4382,-5.2964 OS Grid Ref: NM968321 Postcode: PA35 1JB
Open an interactive map in:
GoogleMap -
Streetmap (OS 50k)
OpenStreetMap -
BingMap (OS 50k)
Map / Terrain
The map is a mixture of forestry woodland, some dense, some open; occasional pockets of deciduous trees; and felled areas (best avoided). There is an extensive network of tracks and paths.
Registration and Start times
Registration: from 17.45
Start times: 18.00 - 19.00
Course closes: 20.00
Course Information
General:
This event offers the chance to try a 4km mountain bike orienteering course around the forest tracks of Fearnoch.
Competitors must follow the Off-road Cycling Code, particularly:by passing walkers and horse riders slowly and courteously by closing all gates (even if half open), by not climbing walls / hedges.You must not enter any Out of Bounds areas or tracks during an event, penalty disqualification.The use of footpaths, private tracks or out of bounds areas will result in disqualification from the event.Ride with the aim to leave no trace, by avoiding skidding.
The following equipment should be carried:
Compulsory – Helmet, Bell.
Recommended – Map, Compass, Waterproof Top, First Aid Kit, Whistle, Watch, Phone.
All riders under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.Competitors must offer help to other competitors who are injured or in need of assistance. Compensation for time lost will be at the discretion of the organisers.If a control is missing or located in the wrong place, do not waste time looking for it. Notify the organiser at the end of the event. If this is confirmed, you will be credited with an appropriate time.You MUST report to the finish, even if you retire.
Entry Details
The mountain bike course is registered with British Mountain Bike Orienteering (BMBO) and requires riders to be either a BMBO member or to complete a Day Rider form (available on the day).
Entry fee for all riders: £2
How to enter
We very much prefer online entry and payment of entry fees.
Please email info@ecko.org.uk with the following details for each competitor:
- Name
- Club
- Age Group (M14, W35 etc; or give year of birth)
- Dibber number (we will allocate a club dibber for those who don't have their own).
- Payment method (bank transfer or cash)
Bank details:
Account name: Loch Eck Orienteers
Sort code: 87-43-62
Account number: 75376768
Cash payment should be placed in a labelled envelope and handed in at registration.
Entry on the day is possible, but we print only a few extra maps.
Dog restrictions
Well behaved dogs on lead are allowed. Please pick up.
Facilities
There are no facilities at Fearnoch. Nearest facilities open in the evening are in Oban.
Miscellaneous
Fearnoch is well used by walkers, dog walkers, runners, and cyclists. Please respect these fellow users.
Contacts / Officials
Organiser/Planner – John McLuckie 07803 987647 (secretary@ecko.org.uk)