What makes these events different
Participants at these events are pushing themselves, sometimes in warm conditions and sometimes far from a paved road. A course also spreads people over a long distance, and closed roads can make it harder for an ambulance to reach them.
Exertional heat illness is a particular concern, and its recognized treatment depends on rapid cooling.2 We do not bring ice baths to events, so we talk through with you how heat will be handled at yours, including start time, shade, water and access for an ambulance.
How coverage usually works
Coverage is usually planned around the finish line, where tired participants gather, often with a pop-up medical tent, chairs and water close by. Clinicians may also be positioned along the course, depending on its length and how easily it can be reached.
We work with your course team to agree how a problem on the course will be reported, how clinicians will reach it, and where an ambulance could meet them.