HFGC

The next course is planned for Tuesday 27th and 28th September 2010.

Hunterforce Geocaching

This is the amalgam of two activities - one we sort of invented and the other we did not. But mixing them twogether we have made a fun game for individuals or groups of 2 or more which teaching map & compass and especially GPS skills under a certain amount of pressure and competition. It is especially good for Search and Rescue Teams, Scouts, Girl Guides, Military Groups, Sports Teams, Families, College or School Teams, etc.

Geocaching

Geocaching is a worldwide game of hiding and seeking treasure. A geocacher can place a geocache in the world, pinpoint its location using GPS technology and then share the geocache’s existence and location online. Anyone with a GPS unit can then try to locate the geocache.

We suggest you visit and join the worldwide membership: http://www.geocaching.com

Hunterforce

The second bit, "Hunterforce" adds a nice edge to the game for an activity when more than one wants to do it.

To play the "Hunterforce" aspect one must add a few rules to make it slightly more exciting and put something at stake for winning or losing!

To make it a "Hunterforce" game there are 10 rules - 5 are essential.

Essential / Mandated:

    • More than one person or group 'compete' to find the Geocache

    • There is a 'rush' element / it must have a time limit (or time imposed rush element!)

    • They must "start" from slightly different grid points (can be line of sight.)

    • When the item if found they sometime blow a whistle and shout their name / team name with "WINS!"

    • The individuals or groups 'sign' or acknowledge the log in order. i.e., "Winners" write first, etc.

Desirable / Usually

    • There is usually an 'additional' higher prize awarded for winning*

    • There may be a 'gig' for losing **

    • There are usually a few, definitely more than one, search on a HFCG

    • The individuals or groups cannot 'share' the GPS - there should be one per person / group etc

    • There is usually a component of speed such as running or mountain biking

Finally, and in addition - it is expected that the route back is more like a 'circle' than a line - but this is not a rule.

* Higher prize could be the coordinator of the event has pre scounted the area and also hidden food AS WELL as the Geocache items to be found or gives a prize or awards a benefit to the winner/s. (If no "coordinator" then this is an 'agreed' arrangement between the groups. If not 'pre-scouted' it is a bonus added to the find. i.e., the winner also gets a free issue of this month's "such-n-such monthly!"

** 50 press ups to the team who do not find or have to wait for the first group to get their food at an event before you can go to the buffet - as say a group camping event, or similar.

GEOCACHING RULES

Please note the rules are the same for regular Geocaching:

Before You Go

    • Learn how to operate your GPS device and bring extra batteries.

    • Select a geocache with terrain and difficulty ratings that will meet your goals. A (1/1) is easiest, a (5/5) the most difficult.

    • Read the geocache description and don’t forget the hints. It is also a good idea to bring a map.

    • Remember that a geocache can take longer to find depending on environmental obstacles.

    • Pack any needed supplies such as water, food and extra clothing.

    • Invite friends and family with you; sharing the experience can be very rewarding. Pets are usually welcome too!

    • Let someone else know where you are going.

On Your Way

    • Mark your car or a trailhead as a waypoint to ensure your safe return.

    • Rely on your eyes rather than your GPS device within 50 feet of the geocache location.

    • Remember, geocaches are hidden in plain sight and never buried, but they are often very cleverly camouflaged.

    • Be mindful of the environment; practice Cache In Trash Out.

After the Find

    • Sign the cache logbook.

    • Leave the cache as you found it (hidden, of course).

    • Share your geocaching