Essex Winter Midweek Series - Colchester
Colchester, United Kingdom • 17 Dec 2025
Event overview
Essex Winter Midweek Series No5 Shrub End takes place on Wednesday 17th December and forms part of the Essex Winter Midweek Series 2025/26. The event base is Berechurch Arms, 177 Shrub End Road, Colchester CO3 4RG. It is a night street orienteering event using MapRun software and printed maps on waterproof paper; the printed map includes more footpath detail than the electronic version.
The event is a line course where controls must be visited in the correct order. Controls are located on fire hydrants. Distances are measured as direct lines between controls, so actual running distance will be longer. Courses:
- 5.4 km (Long)
- 3.4 km (Short)
Participation and practical information
MapRun is used for timing and results. Competitors may use a smartphone or a Garmin watch; the course map on a phone becomes visible after a PIN is issued at registration, while a Garmin watch does not require the PIN. Results are automatically downloaded when a finish is recorded; paper control cards are accepted if MapRun cannot be used.
Entry fees are listed as Senior: £4.00/£5.00 and Junior/Student: £2.00. Juniors are defined as under 21 on 31st December. Late entries are handled via the series coordinator. Scoring uses an age/gender handicap system, with best 6 results from the 10-event series counting. Missed or incorrect controls incur a 5 minute penalty. An Anytime catch-up is available on MapRun for a limited period with a time penalty; running on the night earns a points bonus. Toilets are available at the pub. Safety notes: this is a night event, a head or hand torch is compulsory, under 16s must be accompanied, and high visibility clothing is recommended. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.