Yeah, several of the dead were champion ultramarathoners. It’s not like they were inexperienced.
Rainpants and a raincoat would be way too hot to run that distance, even in 40 degree weather. It’s amazing how much body heat you can generate in a long run. Overheating can be bad, too.
Marathons are different from ultra trail races....in a regular marathon, it’s easy to have ambulances and medical crew, plus water and food stations along the course. I don’t know how aid stations are set up for trail races, but it seemed as if there wasn’t anything at that race in China.
I remember running a half marathon in Lake Placid. Now this is only a little over 13 miles, so nothing compared to an ultramarathon, especially one that was off road. Anyway, the weather started out partly sunny, with temperatures in the 50’s..perfect weather for a long run. But, rain was expected along with dropping temperatures. Indeed, it did rain, and the temperatures plummeted, and the rain turned to sleet. Luckily we had only 4-5 more miles to go. But it was pretty chilly. I can’t remember exactly how I dressed....I think I had a lightweight long sleeved wool, hooded base layer and capri length tights. I didn’t feel unprepared for the change in weather And despite the cold, my body stayed fairly warm. Also, we were on a road. Anyone with an emergency would’ve been able to get help fairly quickly.
Some of the people who survived in the Chinese race turned around once the weather tanked. But, those super competitive, high-ranked athletes...they are so focused and used to pushing through pain and discomfort. I can see how their refusal to give up ultimately ended their lives.