The article is about course lengths at the JK. Supported by data of this year's JK, it suggests that the combination of the current JK course guidelines for the individual days and the 'difficult terrain' in the Lakes made for unsatisfactorily long and difficult courses for the 60+.
The question is about colour-coded course lengths, not the JK. I know there have been threads on this topic before, and I know currently suggested course lengths are got by using ratios (of height-adjusted course lengths) and recommended winning times for an elite M21 (and that this would not be everyone's favourite way.) But the article caused me to wonder if in table 8.6 in the guidelines for events with colour-coded courses
http://www.britishorienteering.org.uk/images/uploaded/downloads/events_appendix_b_2014.pdf
the maximum lengths refer to height-adjusted course lengths or linear lengths?
And if they are height-adjusted, how is a maximum length of 14km for black consistent with a 67 minute winning time for elites given the speed the elite do?
Clarifications, mainly to try and reduce the chance for misunderstanding of my view:
- I thought the JK was excellently and suitably planned.
The M35 winner of M21E (Thierry) seems to have done 3.83 mins/height-adjusted km (86:29 for 15.4km 720m.)
Different guidelines apply to the JK, they are at:
http://www.britishorienteering.org.uk/images/uploaded/downloads/events_competitionrule2014_g_jkind.pdf
I am in favour of the JK visiting difficult terrain.
I do not want my course shortened when it does.
But I would be OK if day 2 became a middle races for all classes.