I did a long distance event a couple of weeks ago, but something has really played on my mind since. It was a mass start and after a couple of hours I was last, but not going at a slow pace, others were viewable in front and I was well within finishing within the time limit. I was doing the shorter distance and therefore nothing to worry about.
I am female and was doing the event solo. I was really enjoying it to clear my mind as had an unbelievably stressful few weeks. The whole day was much needed for my mental health. It was by the sea and was so refreshing.
Suddenly two men appeared at a fast pace behind. They were sweepers of the event and they were walking right in my personal space, one either side of me and talking over my head. I felt like I was being frog marched by the police. I asked who they were and they said sweepers for the event. They were then being a bit condescending with their comments towards me about my "last" position. The main issue I have is that they were walking so close that I tripped over them twice, ended up on the floor and I kept having to stop as they were veering in front of me. I politely told them they were making me stressed walking so close and suggested they gave me some personal space. The man responded that they were not allowed to, they had to walk right by me. I told them very clearly I did not need any help, but everytime we came to a point where I needed to refer to the map they didn't give me a chance and told me where to go. They ended up on the receiving end of my sharp tongue and all went silent.
My question is, were they bring inappropriate as sweepers to the event. My friend says I should complain about them.