MapRun

Turn any park or city into a smart flag‑free orienteering course

MapRun reimagines traditional orienteering by removing the need for physical flags and punch units, replacing them with accurate GPS punching and automated timing. Instead of chasing paper controls, you simply follow your chosen course on the map, and the app logs each control as you reach it, giving you a clean, modern way to enjoy the sport.

The interface focuses on clarity rather than flashiness. Course lists, maps and results are laid out in a straightforward manner, making it easy to jump into an event or revisit a previous run. Once you start, MapRun tracks your route in real time, silently recording controls and then presenting a detailed trace of where you went, split times for each leg, and your overall result compared with others.

For clubs and organizers, MapRun is a major time saver. Because the system relies on GPS instead of physical hardware, events can stay open for days or weeks, letting participants run when it suits them. Organizers can design courses, publish them, and instantly benefit from in‑app leaderboards and automated timing without the logistics of placing and collecting dozens of flags.

Performance is generally solid, assuming you have a decent GPS signal. In dense forests or urban canyons, occasional location drift can affect punching accuracy, but the app includes tolerances to reduce frustration. Battery usage is reasonable for a typical outing, though longer events will still benefit from a well‑charged device.

MapRun is best suited to anyone who loves orienteering, trail running, or exploring new areas with a bit of navigational challenge. It doesn’t replace the charm of a fully staffed event, but it provides a flexible, low‑overhead way to keep the sport alive and accessible all year round.