Have you ever had particpants show up with walking sticks? If so, do you allow them? I find them to be a distinct competitive advantage for walkers on a flat course.

Since walks are usually non-competitive, it doesn't matter if they use walking sticks. If you give out awards to runners, though, you can ban walking sticks but you also need a course that is in full view of judges all of the time, since many 'walkers' often run parts of the course. In a competitive walk, anybody who takes both feet off the ground at the same time is disqualified.

Key phrase 'small community race' - We put over 60 helpers along our courses. I get a few complaints every other year on competitive walkers who might be running. Next year we will be placing 2-3 course marshalls in undisclosed spots along the course where running may be prevalent amongst those registered as walkers. The marshall's sole job will be to watch for walkers running. Violators will be quietly DQ'd. Sticks were used by individuals in the competitive walk and they definitely were an aid along the flat portions of our route.