I must say I was incredibly surprised when Mike pulled out this year... I was as sure of him finishing as I am of the sun coming up most mornings. I know (well, I have at least a pretty damn good idea from several participants personal experiences) how ridiculously tough this event is, but there is nothing new it can really show Mr Woolnough, and now I'm actually pretty certain he left the race as much out of frustration and irritation than anything else... not that he would likely ever admit it being the gentlemen he is. Top 10, heck even top 20 is a massive result for any mere mortal in an event this tough (not to mention just finishing), but we're clearly talking about the sharp end here... Mikes always been right up in the mix despite giving away near on two decades+ to most of his competitors. He's not exactly short of mental strength and his insights and advice from his blogs have done a huge amount for this form of competition. Drafting into a head wind is not a small advantage, it's game changing and I can only imagine the incredible frustration for someone who has painstakingly etched out a small lead solo through bloody minded grit and determination, to then lose it all and several positions to a peloton of riders sharing the burden of taking on challenging conditions. The drafting rule was always there for a reason... Rules are rules, they should be applied to everyone and equally so. This is an individual challenge, man against man (or women) on a savage course under extreme conditions. No interference from outside factors. Everyone must earn that medal and that feeling of accomplishment equally. If you're not up to it, don't enter the "Toughest race on earth" Just like when Gunn Rita pointed out the problem with the fairness of the ladies race at the Cape Epic, I would like to think Mike should also be heard out. I've no doubt Alex will listen and next year the event will clear up any grey areas and ensure we have the toughest and fairest race on earth
