For several years now I've marshaled Bessyboot the first Checkpoint on the Borrowdale race along with the Bowland Mrt. As the race starts they radio in to see how many set off so we know how many to expect. ( this is providing the organisers get it right on the start line in informing the Mrt of the correct number of starters ! ) we collect ( with difficulty ) the number of every runner passing through Bessyboot. I remember the tally system being used which made it easier for the checkpoint marshals to track progress but I believe it was difficult for the organisers to set up. The use of radios in races like the Borrowdale is essential and as most people know the Fra have radios which organisers can use. Clubs though could purchase their own as a good set is relatively inexpensive. We use mobile phones to advise our marshals of numbers etc but radios are perhaps a better option. I think that the system of physically counting each runner through a funell or grid at the start so that the RO knows exactly how many have set should now become the norm. The dibber system can be expensive and is not infallible, it relies on the box or the dibber to be received back at control to be interrogated before information is gathered not too good if the dibber box is in a remote location ( unless the even more expensive option of sending information back to control by SMS is used and with that reception is not always assured ) Last year at our Boxing Day race we had a runner outstanding only to find after exhaustive investigation that she did not run and was at home, a relative had filled in the form and registered her to run. Counting heads at the start would have prevented a lot of worry. It may add to a bit more hassle at the start of a race but I hope that runners will understand the need and cooperate
