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ARDF is a sport that combines radio directional finding with the map and compass skills of orienteering. It is a timed race in which individual competitors use a compass, maps and radio direction finding apparatus, search for radio transmitters.

Popularity
The sport originated in North and Eastern Europe in the late 1950s, when amateur radio was widely promoted in schools as a modern scientific and technical activity. It has since become popular in China, Oceania and North America.

Location
ARDF competitions take place in large natural areas such as national parks, and must consist of a diverse terrain containing both wild and wooded areas.

Age
Men aged 19 and younger.
Men of any age.
Men aged 40 and older.
Men aged 50 and older.
Men aged 60 and older.
Women aged 19 and younger
Women of any age.
Women aged 35 and older
Women aged 50 and older.
Youth = fifteen or younger.

Description
An ARDF competition takes place in a large diverse wooded terrain. Each competitor receives a detailed topographic map of the competition area. The map will indicate with a triangle the location of the start and the location of the finish with two concentric circles. Somewhere within the competition area designated on the map, there will have placed a number of low power radio transmitters. Each transmitter emits a signal in Morse code by which it is easily identifiable to the competitors.

Dedication
Depending on entry classification, a competitor will attempt to locate three, four, or all five transmitters, and then race to the finish line. Competitors start at staggered intervals, are individually timed, and are expected to perform all radio direction finding and navigation skills on their own. Standings are determined first by the number of transmitters found, then by shortest time on course. Competitors who take longer than the specified time to finish may be disqualified.

Closely Related Activities
Orienteering 448, Trail Quest 728.

Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.

Energy

Arms

Legs

Sight

Hearing

Speech

Learning

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