Read this part of the thread with interest. this will be my 6th fellsman and last year tried a new tactic of not stopping at the check points. I had two botttles put water and tab in one and the other had tea in , used my mugs for foood and ate on the move. this worked for me.
I think as it has already been said it is horses for courses and what works for one is not always the same for another due to many factors; amount of training, health and ability to suffer.
love the phrase complete rather than compete . It is a great day out and a good look at yourself.