I was thinking about this alot during my last race (it was very long). There is a certain standard of expected behaviour during trail racing, just as there is an any given social situation. Do rules apply? Maybe.
- always turn off your headtorch at a checkpoint, if you are running at night. Rachel, you are an idiot for forgetting. But it's just plain rude to have your light blinding the poor marshals, up at all hours in their own time, trying to provide sustenance. Plus, let's face it, they can't even actually see you when you're asking for that refill of flat Coke.
- adhere to running pole etiquette. This is probably well documented somewhere. But never carry them horizontally. Or overreach with them. The shins and calfs of runners around you need to be protected from sharp edges.
- don't look in the general direction of anyone... Er... trying to answer the call of nature near the side of the trail. It's just plain ignorant. And hopefully, all runners involved will remember to return the favour.
- try and give people plenty of warning when you're running past them. I appreciate the more tired you are, the less you want to be courteous. But seriously, there's nothing worse than having people jump up behind you when you're stumbling along and struggling to focus
- if a fellow runner has fallen or needs help... Offer it!!! There may not be a medic for a while, and your finishing time will probably not be affected too much by offering the odd plaster or paracetamol. Unless, of course, you're racing at the front. In which case, none of these thoughts apply anyway.
Lastly, for now, my favourite unofficial rule. Look around you and drink in the scenery, race, atmosphere. Possibly, you may never participate in this event again. Or get to see this place again.
Enjoy, savour, enjoy.
