Class of 2025, Katherine Maundrell shines at the Junior World Orienteering Championships

Katherine earned selection in the Australian Junior Orienteering Team after a series of strong performances at state and national level, securing the opportunity to compete against the world’s best junior orienteers on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

The Junior World Orienteering Championships brings together elite athletes under the age of 20 from across the globe to compete in challenging sprint, middle distance, long distance and relay events. Held in the picturesque coastal city of Karlskrona, Sweden, the 2026 championships tested competitors’ endurance, navigation skills and strategic decision-making across varied and demanding terrain.

Finishing 17th out of more than 150 athletes is a remarkable achievement and places Katherine among the top junior orienteers in the world. Her result reflects not only her athletic ability but also the countless hours of training, preparation and dedication required to compete at the highest international level.

Orienteering is a unique sport that combines physical fitness with rapid problem-solving, requiring competitors to navigate between checkpoints using only a map and compass. Success depends on maintaining speed while making accurate navigational decisions under pressure a challenge Katherine met with skill and determination throughout the championships.

Katherine’s achievement is a source of great pride for her family, coaches and the entire Radford community. Her success exemplifies the values of commitment, resilience and excellence that are fostered at the College and serves as an inspiration to fellow students pursuing their passions both inside and outside the classroom.

Congratulations, Katherine, on your outstanding international result. We are incredibly proud of your achievement and look forward to following your future success in the sport