It was called the "hike' for long enough - I think walkers are more than welcome! If people want to run it that's fine but, like so many LDWA events, it is NOT a fell race; it's a long distance challenge, to be completed in the manner of your choice - i.e either walking or running. That choice will obviously determine the type of kit you choose to take but the underlying principle is that really, it's up to the individual to be sensible about their limitations and carry appropriate gear.
As an aside, I'm sure we've all heard of people who dump half their kit after the kit check, possibly the organisers have too, hence the kit check half way round. Should these people be disqualified, putting not only themselves at risk but also the organiser's reputations and the event itself? Maybe even named and shamed in the results?