UNAIR NEWS The Student Activity Unit of Nature Lovers at 51动漫 (WANALA UNAIR) achieved another national-level accomplishment. The WANALA delegation secured a podium finish at the Orienteering Competition of Mapala Pelita (OCMA), organized by Mapala Pelita of Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
The competition involved more than 100 participants from various institutions across Indonesia. Marselia Crenata earned third place in the individual student category. Other WANALA delegates also achieved notable rankings, including Zalfa Zahira Febriyani (fourth place), Muhamad Nur Khamim (seventh place), Dino Lanang (19th place), as well as Nayla Wardah, who also participated.
Terrain challenges and navigation
Orienteering is a navigation sport that combines map-reading skills, compass use, and physical speed to locate control points. Crenata explained that the terrain in the Kelir area of Kediri posed considerable challenges for participants.
淭he terrain was quite challenging, with dense vegetation, uneven land contours, and hidden checkpoints. Around 80 percent of the route passed through plantation and forest areas, Crenata said.
She encountered moments of hesitation when choosing routes during the race. However, her determination to reach the target drove her to make quick decisions, even when it required pushing through thick vegetation. 淭hat is the real challenge, we must stay calm and focused under time pressure and tight competition, she added.
Rigorous preparation and WANALA philosophy
The achievement was the result of thorough preparation.Crenata explained that the WANALA team underwent intensive physical training, including endurance running and orienteering simulations with fellow members.
Navigation skills gained through WANALA training were key to their performance. In addition to technical ability, Crenata highlighted the importance of mental resilience. 淥ur motto at WANALA is 楾abah Sampai Akhir (Endure Until the End). It reminds us not to give up and to remain focused until we reach the finish line, she said.
Future outlook
The delegation aimed to gain experience in orienteering while promoting the university and organization at the national level. Through this accomplishment, WANALA UNAIR hopes to continue improving and achieving success in higher-level competitions.
淲e hope WANALA can keep participating and achieving more achievments in future competitions, Crenata concluded.
Author: Fauziah Laili Romadhon
Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
