You need to get there early and try to walk the course with someone who has run before.

Heres some pointers:

/\ ___________ /\ two cones 18+feet apart this is a gate you have to go through them

>/\ a cone on its side next to an upright cone means go around. These are directional cones if you go the wrong way around a cone with a pointer you are off course. you will see these in sloloms.

>>>>>>>>>> you may see a number of cones on there sides basicly making a wall. That is exactly what they are.

Things will make sence when you walk the course.

Good luck