I'm not sure I like the no helping other competitors out rule, but I'm jaundiced from seeing on an ultra running event people run past other competitors who were clearly lost in very exposed and dangerous conditions (Cheviots at night time -10 degs) without helping.
I agree, I think the helper shouldn't be penalised if they're willing to help but obviously the person receiving the help should then get a little asterix next to their name in the results.
No one could object to that.
I'm not sure I like the no helping other competitors out rule, but I'm jaundiced from seeing on an ultra running event people run past other competitors who were clearly lost in very exposed and dangerous conditions (Cheviots at night time -10 degs) without helping.