Jan Kjellström
International Festival
of Orienteering 2021
South West England
2nd April - 5th April
South West England 2nd April - 5th April

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History of the JK

Jan Kjellström (12/04/1940 - 12/01/1967) was an orienteer from Sweden and the son of Alvar Kjellström, the Silva compass founder. Jan would have been pleased to know that, many years after his death, we are still competing in his memory.

A memory of unstinting time and assistance to British Orienteering which commenced in the forests of Belgium in 1964. The following year gave the opportunity to renew his acquaintance in the forests of France when he again gave his time, expertise and encouragement to a country struggling to acquire the skill of a sport he was born to. During the next 2 years the relationship developed further when he competed in Britain and travelled the country teaching us better techniques and improved methods of organising competitions. June 1966 saw him once again assisting us at the Euro meeting, a true ambassador for the sport. There is no doubt that he established himself with the orienteers of the day through his expertise, sincerity and humour.

For many, competing this year, he will only be a name. That he should have created such an impression in such a short time before his untimely death in a car accident in 1967 is all credit to him. Our governing body has seen fit to hold this memorial event in his name each Easter, so when you are within a few moments of your start time, spare a thought for a friend of orienteering, Jan Kjellström.

The current format of one Sprint race, two Individual races and a Relay started in 2006.