Iain, the not-a-race is Trans Fan. Its a great day out but a totally different vibe to a proper race. No comparison there.
I can't believe we're having this discussion at all. The self-centredness of some people never ceases to amaze me. So what if a race is on public land or goes where you want to train? If you had any inkling at all of what goes into organising a race or any shred of respect for the RO or the fact that a race was put on for the enjoyment of others, then 'running along' would never enter your mind.
To me, this falls into the same category as littering or wall-climbing. No idea, no respect, no caring, me-only f*cking ignorance! Typical of modern society then!!