MM, I think it's worth a go, at least once. I am only intending to use them later in the race when I start to feel a bit weary (the TdesAR is 54 kms). Although race experience may prove me wrong, tests so far suggest they help generate extra "oomph" on the climbs and I seem to cope ok with running downhill with 2 poles in 1 hand.

Time will tell....................!