Silly kit requirement

[anthonykay]

Some people may think the FRA kit requirements too rigid -- but at least there is a good reason for every item in the list. If you want a really silly kit requirement for a mountain race, look at this: http://www.teamlatrace.ch/km/en/ .

Helmets!?!

There are no loose rocks on this course that could come bouncing down onto your head, or anything else that would necessitate a helmet. And this is one of Europe's most prestigious mountain races: the venue where Urban Zemmer recorded the first ever sub-30 minute Vertical Kilometre last year.

[mr brightside]

It's character building and keeps you on your toes, i remember nearly getting taken out by one on the way up Wetherlam on the 3 Shires. The trick is to catch them before they gain speed.

[noel]

Maybe it's to stop being accidentally clocked on the head by all those walking poles.

[MorganW]

That does seem odd from what one can see of the course.

There is a European race (a team event I recall) where runners are obliged to don helmets for part of a descent. This goes through a loose limestone (?) cliff band and seems pretty sensible.

And I recall a technical ultra in Argentina where helmets are worn over part of the course. Dakota Jones' race report is here:

http://www.irunfar.com/2014/03/geargentina.html

[ba-ba]

Tre Rifugi relay, middle leg runners wear helmets, I believe
First leg is uphill
2nd leg is scramble, lose ridgy stuff(?)
Leg 3 downhill.

Want a go at this one some time!

[PeteS]

I was more worried about this in the regulations:
"The runner coming from behind must be given free way"

ooer missus!