About DCIOC

The 1st Dhyan Chand International Orienteering Championship 2025 is set to be a landmark event in the Indian sporting landscape, bringing together elite orienteers, aspiring athletes, and adventure enthusiasts from across the globe. Scheduled from November 7th to November 16th, 2025, this championship marks a significant step in the promotion of orienteering in India under the esteemed guidance of the Dhyan Chand Foundation.

Orienteering, a sport that blends endurance, navigation, and strategy, is gaining momentum in India, and this championship will serve as a platform to showcase the country’s growing talent on an international stage. Participants will navigate through diverse terrains, testing their physical and mental prowess in a series of challenging courses designed to international standards.

This annual championship is being hosted in New Delhi, India, for its inaugural edition. Each year, a new city will be chosen as the host, allowing different regions of India to experience and contribute to the growth of orienteering while showcasing their unique landscapes and cultural heritage.

The championship will not only witness thrilling races but also include workshops, technical sessions, and cultural exchanges, making it an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike.

With the spirit of Major Dhyan Chand—India’s greatest hockey legend—guiding the event, the 1st Dhyan Chand International Orienteering Championship 2025 is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of skill, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.

Join us as we make history in Indian orienteering!

Importance of DCIOC to India and World Orienteering

🌍 For World Orienteering

1. Global Expansion of Orienteering – DCIOC introduces orienteering to new regions, increasing global participation in the sport.

2. New Competitive Landscape – Adds India as a major destination in the international orienteering circuit, diversifying competition.

3. Cross-Cultural Exchange – Brings together athletes from different nations, fostering international sportsmanship and collaboration.

4. Olympic Vision Alignment – Strengthens orienteering’s position as an internationally recognized sport, aligning with the Olympic movement.

5. Promoting Orienteering in Varied Terrains – Showcases diverse terrains in India, from urban cityscapes to forests, adding unique challenges to the sport.
   

🇮🇳 For India

1. First International Orienteering Championship in India – DCIOC 2025 marks India’s entry into hosting top-tier orienteering competitions.

2. Encouraging a New Sport in India – Increases awareness and participation in orienteering, inspiring athletes beyond traditional sports.

3. Boosting Adventure & Fitness Culture – Promotes fitness, endurance, and outdoor adventure among Indian youth.

4. Economic & Tourism Impact – Positions India as a global sports tourism hub, attracting international athletes, visitors, and investments.

5. Creating Career Opportunities – Opens doors for Indian athletes, coaches, referees, and event organizers in the global orienteering community.

6. Government & Institutional Recognition – Strengthens the case for orienteering’s inclusion in national sports programs and funding initiatives.

7. Sustainability & Environment Awareness – Promotes eco-friendly sporting practices, reinforcing conservation efforts in natural landscapes.

DCIOC is not just an event; it’s a game-changer for orienteering in India and a milestone in the sport’s global growth!