Quote Originally Posted by crowhill View Post
I can't see how else Scoffer et al could organise this race any better:

1. Numbers have to be limited for a race like Borrowdale for environmental reasons.

2. For safety reasons the race has to be pre-entry so a runner's credentials can be, if not actually checked, at least specified on the entry form.

3. A substitution system was in place - I missed out on a place, but managed to substitute with someone who couldn't run (Thanks Goldie.)

There are lots of reasons why people can't run: injury, illness, work commitments, car problems etc... There were a few in my club that didn't run for a variety of reasons, but they all tried to find substitutes. I don't think there's any point in "naming and shaming."
I MAY BE TOTALLY AND UTTERLY WRONG BUT:

1) I think Borrowdale has been Entry on the day in previous years

2) Do you REALLY think someone checks people's credentials and the race results from races they have said they completed on their entry forms? That would take a very keen, and enthusiastic organiser with a lot of spare time on his/her hands indeed!

3) You could still have the requirements in place on the entry form for people to fill in on the day.....it is important to remember that FELL RUNNING as a sport relies on a sense of responsibility on the competitors part- they are responsible ultimately for their own safety in the hills- otherwise, could you imagine the size of the rulebook needed for it?? madness