The Ben Nevis Race

[Mike T]

You dont need a map man, straight up and down innit.

I know, but I assumed the RO would still want us to have a map - not so?

[Kepi Blanc]

Website doesn't mention out about a map.
I didn't have one last year.

[Richard Head]

Website doesn't mention out about a map.
I didn't have one last year.

Done it 5 times, never been any mention of a map

[Rob Furness]

It's a category AM race so a map is part of mandatory kit

[Bob]

Just take one anyway (and a compass), if the organisers say you need it then fine, if they say you don't then leave it in the car.

[Graham Breeze]

It's a category AM race so a map is part of mandatory kit

As the FRA Calendar makes clear, the Ben Nevis Race is neither permitted nor insured through the FRA.

[Rob Furness]

As the FRA Calendar makes clear, the Ben Nevis Race is neither permitted nor insured through the FRA.

Ah, didn't know that. Just looked at the page. Oh well, I wouldn't worry about a map then unless the organiser specifies it

[RichK]

Yeah I'd say map and compass is well near useless on the race. You'd usually need a compass in bad weather to get to the summit but on the day there will be about a thousand marshalls at the top gathering your tokens.

Two years ago the viz was awful but it was still a very easy to find the summit marshalls.

(it felt like thousands; almost more marshalls than runners).

[IWCharters]

I suppose, if all else fails, glancing at the Ben Nevis Race rules might just clarify the need for a map.

Rules here: http://www.bennevisrace.co.uk/html/entry_details.html

[Mike T]

I suppose, if all else fails, glancing at the Ben Nevis Race rules might just clarify the need for a map.

Rules here: http://www.bennevisrace.co.uk/html/entry_details.html

Hi Ian - I had looked.

" Equipment:

a) Competitors must carry full waterproof body cover, including head covering and gloves.

b) Competitors must carry a whistle and the runners card issued as confirmation of entry.

c) Failure to comply results in immediate disqualification from the current race. "

As is sometimes the case it is a bit vague - but I guess map/compass are not mentioned so can be left - in the car! Hood vs hat - or both? Who knows! I have Emailed the RO.

I have not been up Ben Nevis but I understand it is one of the few walking descents where an accurate compass bearing can be crucial particularly in poor visibility - if you do not have ascending walkers/runners to aim for.