But the whole idea of Women competing in a men's class is absurd unless men are also allowed to compete in a women's race. It's this notion that women are weaker runners therefore let them compete in a 'higher' class just as is letting the over 40's compete in the younger age category, Either categories should be truly open to all (presumably with a lower age limit for good reasons) or categories should be what they say and no exceptions.
That was my reckoning on suggesting leaving everything as is, but creating a new Open to all categorie. But on your reasoning on age I have a question. Do you stop being a senior as soon as you turn 40? Logic suggests not, well to me anyway.