A love of the outdoors

Tim Farrant, 20, is a keen rogainer. He spent time with LAURA ALBREY .

How did you get involved in rogaining?

I got involved through orienteering as I was doing a lot through the club and extended out to do rogaining, which is similar to orienteering but longer - ranging from three to 24 hours.

What is the best thing about rogaining?

There is this moment at three in the morning when you think you could be anywhere but you are struggling up some hill trying to find a check point. It's about the ridiculousness of it really. It is a laugh and it never gets boring.

The worst?

Getting tired and being dragged around by your team-mate.

What has your best rogaining moment been?

In 2008, Georgia Whitla and I won the world championships in the mixed junior grade in Estonia.

Where is your favourite place to go rogaining?

I quite enjoy Waiouru Army Base. Estonia was something special and I also enjoy a bit of ski rogaining.

What are the top three skills a rogainer must have?

It is about running, strategy and being very cunning.

What is your other obsession?

A bit of extreme environmentally responsible tramping, such as seeing if carbon neutral skiing would be an option in the future.

Where is your favourite place to escape?

Arthur's Pass, as it is great. It is so handy on our doorstep. There is always something happening and it is good to get away from everything.

What advice would you have for anyone wanting to get involved in rogaining?

Have a look on the website www.rogaine.org.nz and see if it is for you. If you enjoy the outdoors and you like a bit of adventure you will love it.

Where do you hope to take rogaining in the future?

It could go anywhere. There has been rogaining all over the world in places such as Antarctica, so, just going to some crazy unexplored place.

- © Fairfax NZ News