A quick response from fellow Three Peaks blogger, Dave Haygarth.
Here's a picture of him powering up the lane to Pen-y-Ghent in 1996. (click on the image to view full size version)
This image is of note for a number of reasons. Firstly Dave is riding a "Bespoke" 'cross frame by local builder Norris Lockley who used to have a shop in Settle - no more than 8 miles from where this photo was taken.
Secondly it represents the cross-over period from 'hairnet' style crash hats (like this uber-cool Cinelli that Dave's wearing) to the hardshells we all now sport. Dig the groovy early Specialized worn by the second rider here... (note however that I have a picture taken by my wife Bina of a rider at the start of the 2003 race wearing a 'hairnet' - so they still took a long time to fall out of use)
Lastly I think I'm correct in saying that '96 was probably the most recent running of the 'Peaks where the riders had to endure really dreadful weather for the entire race - as witnessed by the standing water and low mist. So fingers crossed for 2008 - but make sure you bring your waterproof just in case... (photo - Dave Haygarth Archive)
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