Multi Terrain Bike Orienteers (MTBO) is a sports club based in Brisbane, Queensland. Founded in 2007, it was the first club in Queensland dedicated to promoting the sport of bicycle orienteering. The primary goals of the club are to encourage active participation, organise events for club members and other riders, and promote the sport in both urban and natural areas of Queensland.
MTB Orienteering, also known as MTBO, is a unique sport that combines cross country cycling with navigation. Participants use specially-produced maps to navigate their way along roads, tracks, and trails to control markers (checkpoints) placed at specific locations. The challenge lies in interpreting the map to determine the best route between controls, making it more than just a race for speed. Winners are determined by timing and correctly locating controls in the shortest time.
Participants in MTBO events carry an electronic card called SportIdent, which registers their visit at each control. Course lengths vary from 5 km to over 40 km, and the terrain ranges from flat coastal pine plantations to undulating native bush forests. The club offers courses suitable for riders of all abilities, from casual social riders to competitive cyclists. There are separate classes for males, females, and pairs/groups, covering ages from 10 to over 70 years.
MTBO events organised by Multi Terrain Bike Orienteers are known for their low-key and fun competition, welcoming anyone who wants to try the sport. To participate, riders need the basics: a bike, helmet, drink bottle, and basic tools and tube for any necessary repairs. It is also helpful to have some form of mapboard on the handlebars to hold the map in a convenient position for reading. Map boards can range from a simple clipboard held in place with cable ties to sturdy commercially available models.
As with any sporting activity, there are general rules to ensure fair play and safety. Riders are expected to stick to marked roads, tracks, and trails, without taking shortcuts. They must also avoid “Out-of Bounds” areas and provide assistance to fellow riders when required. It is essential to ride defensively and maintain control throughout the event.
MTBO events organised by Multi Terrain Bike Orienteers follow the Australian Competition rules, which can be found on their website. The club also participates in the National MTBO Series and the QLD State Series, adhering to the respective rules for those competitions.
The Multi Terrain Bike Orienteers website is proudly powered by WordPress, using the Flex-lite theme by Vincent Dubroeucq. Visitors to the website can find more information about upcoming events, view past results, and join the club to participate in MTBO.