I can see what you mean 'Runningfool' but you're on your own from Rowandrennan for some time, until at least just passed Crainlarich, as well, and even if your on the tracks, able to call support, you could still be an hour or so from getting assistance. It wasn't really a criticism, just an observation of the difference. Though as I pointed out, I did actually feel one or two were 'foolhardy' as the weather forecast was horrendous! I wonder a little if one or two coming from a more trail/road race background don't fully realise the terrain etc that they're entering into. At the end of the day, as you say, its up to the competitors to work it out for themselves!!