Questions for Region 1 ARDF WG

In order for IARU Regions 2 and 3 to understand what technologies are allowed and which are banned under Region 1 ARDF rules, and to ensure fairness to all competitors, we need the IARU Region 1 ARDF Working Group to please provide answers to two questions below.

 Regarding 2018 ARDF Rules Part B:

“T4.2 The use of satellite positioning devices is allowed provided they do not contain digital map of the terrain (“nonmapping” devices).”

Question 1: Does Region 1 ARDF WG want T4.2 be interpreted to mean it is OK for competitors to use GPS technology for navigation assistance as long as the navigation assistance is provided audibly or textually instead of using a map display?

If the answer to Question 1 is “Yes”, then regarding 2018 ARDF Rules Part A: “2.4 The guiding principle in the interpretation of these rules shall be fairness.” the next question is:

Question 2A: To ensure fairness to those who do not use satellite navigation, would Region 1 ARDF WG consider adding text similar to the following in the next revision of the rules?

Suggested revised wording:
T4.3 Those using satellite-navigation technology for navigation assistance, including ARDF receivers containing integrated GPS or GLONASS receivers, shall be classified in a separate competitive category from those relying solely on personal navigation skills.

If however, the answer to Question 1 is “No”, then the next question is:

Question 2B: Would Region 1 ARDF WG please change T4.2 to make it clear that satellite navigation assistance is not allowed in ARDF competitions? Language similar to the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) might be considered:

Suggested revised wording:
T4.2 GPS-enabled devices (watches etc.) can be carried provided that they have no map display and are not used for navigation purposes. The use of satellite positioning devices by competitors for any navigation purpose is prohibited. Navigation purposes include setting waypoints, measuring distances, heading following, and any other assistance with directing one’s course.

2 thoughts on “Questions for Region 1 ARDF WG”

  1. Hello Jiri,
    Thank you very much for your comment. Does the IARU Region 1 WG provide an invitation to individuals to submit questions? Does the WG provide information on how individuals should submit questions directly to the WG? If so, where do I find it?

  2. If the IARU Region 1 ARDF WG opinion is needed, there is nothing easier than simply ask directly. The above questions were published at this website but nobody asked the IARU R1 ARDF WG itself (I found this just by chance).
    Actually, the ARDF WG just established the ad-hoc group to deal with New generation communication devices (to evaluate the impact to the character and fairness of the ARDF and to consider possible changes in the Rules). This topic can be easily extended also to other electronic tools which can affect the performance of the ARDF competitors.
    In the Amateur Radio (often called “the most scientific hobby”), the technology progress is generally welcomed until it does not jeopardise the character, objectivity and fairness of the sport.
    73, Jiri, OK2BWN (IARU Region 1 ARDF WG Chairman)

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