Don't let it bother you too much, I used them, think they helped, others complete in good times without. I ummed and ahhed for a long time. The first year I ran and carried them for 50 miles, then used them when I was in pieces. This time I used them from the off, but this time I was really keyed up for the race havinG DNF'd, but it was also just more favourable conditions, full stop.

I opted for the raidlights, if you want you can borrow mine if you're in North Wales and see what you think (assuming you are chester). Give us a shout.

A big factor in me using them was talking to Chris N and Tim H, the two previous PB record holders and they both used them in their quick rounds. I couldn't believe how strongly Tim was descending at the end so assumed his quads had been saved by the poles. They used carbon leki type poles I think.