Contactless punching using SIAC e-sticks is still new to many orienteers in North America. GAOC has been using contactless punching at local meets for several years and it has been well received by competitors.

We will be offering mixed punching on all courses and in all classes. Competitors can use traditional contact e-sticks (e-punches), or contactless SIAC e-sticks as they wish. The course controls, including the FINISH control, will be programmed in beacon mode which will allow operation with either e-punch type. The START box will NOT be in beacon mode. Everyone is required to manually punch the START control.

Traditional contact e-punches are available for rent during registration.

Traditional contact e-punches leave a record on the control when it is punched. This can be useful if there is a protest. Be aware that contactless SIAC e-punching leaves NO record on the control.

To read more about contactless SIAC punching, see:

Mixed punching