2026 long distance event: WRE status change

After very careful consideration, we have decided that the Long Distance event at Nationals 2026 will no longer be a World Ranking Event (WRE). It has proved impossible to set courses of the technical level required for a WRE event whilst keeping the extensive fence network on the maps for red courses, especially for the Elite grades.  Removal of the fences from the map would require IOF dispensation for a WRE, which is also not possible at this time. In combination, these two factors preclude us from running the Long as a WRE.

Whilst we regret not being able to offer a WRE long distance event, we are confident you will find this spectacular new terrain, along with fenceless maps for the red courses mean you have a very high quality orienteering experience. The Middle and Sprint events retain WRE status.

Please take careful note that there will be a difference between the Middle and Long Distance events relating to fences on the red course maps. This arises from the different fence densities on the two maps. Fences will be displayed for the Middle, and not displayed for the Long. Fences will be displayed on white, yellow, and orange courses for all events. 

#WREstatus #NationalsLongDistance #NationalChampsLong