It’s a rewarding combination of cardiovascular endurance, problem solving and great scenery — a test of the mind, as well as the body. Participants use color-coded topographical maps showing plant life, water features and other natural landmarks to find a series of “control stations” marked with orange-and-white flags. At each station, they punch a score card and continue — all with the clock ticking. The route is up to the racer.
The Swedish military developed the sport in the early 20th century to save their soldiers from getting lost. Since then, it has grown into an international pastime for serious athletes and weekend hikers alike.
Now I know how they motivated Swedish soldiers to win the early competitions: last one in eats lutevisk for a week.