I'm sure this tread will have been in here before but after 10 pages I got bored of searching (only a further 32 to go).
I raced at Dunnerdale today in light drizzle on and off for the hour or so it took me, the ground conditions where poor and very slippery in places and in my opinion the organisers had specified as mandatory kit, full waterproof cover, map, compass and whistle. I passed a female Ambleside runner 155 who was carrying no kit at all. I challenged her and she muttered something like I’ve not got any. She came in a few places behind me and I mentioned it to the time keepers and the organiser and no one seemed interested.
In my opinion if kit is mandatory then those without should be certainly disqualified from racing and possibly even serve a ban.
I believe this is particularly true at a race such as Dunnerdale which has a large number of young runners taking part for the first time and club runners should be setting an example not getting away with it as the weather is OK.
My opinion I know but carrying the correct kit when in the hills can and does save lives!
Dave