Did you knoworienteering originated from Sweden?

Orienteering did indeed originate from Sweden in the late 19th century. It emerged from military training in land navigation, where soldiers practiced crossing unfamiliar terrain using maps and compasses. The term "orientering" itself comes from the Swedish word for "orientation."

Here are some key facts about orienteering's Swedish roots:

• First competition: The first official orienteering competition took place on May 28, 1893, in the Stockholm garrison games.
• Early development: Major Ernst Killander is considered the "father of orienteering" and played a crucial role in developing the rules and principles of the sport.
• Widespread popularity: Orienteering quickly gained popularity within the Swedish military and then spread to civilian populations.
• Global impact: Today, orienteering is a globally recognized sport enjoyed by millions around the world.

Knowing the Swedish origins of orienteering adds a special dimension to the sport. It highlights its connection to historical military techniques and its evolution into a recreational activity accessible to everyone.