I was thinking about the lighting issue just the other day actually. The headlamp I used seemed to do a damn fine job when it got dark during my 50, but I was only in the dark for an hour or two. If I attempt a 100 Ill be in the dark for anywhere from 12 to 14 hours, and who knows where I will be as far as mental capacity goes.... Not that it could get much worse!
Im thinkig at least one hand held, and a headlamp. Might have to carry extra batteries for each just in case.
As far as a pacer is concerned... Im a little unsure of that. Me and David (NSDR) ran pretty much the whole 50 together last time, and helped pull each other through the low times, but I think our dynamic was what worked there. Im a bit of a strange guy, and I know that. Finding a pacer that wont want to choke me out or sprint off in the opposite direction within the first 15 mjnutes might be difficult. And as off as I am normally, I dont know what 80 miles and 20 hours of running will put me. Plus the course at Rocky is quite narrow in most places, and where it isnt theres not too much variability in terrain / surfaces to really make a difference.
My main concern is weather. Thats what killed Ragsdale's race. Feburary in Texas is very unpredictable. If its anything like last year then I think conditions would be damn near perfect. If its like the year before when Todd made his attempt, I wont even attempt it and Ill wear Merrell something another gloves.
Right now I need to focus on getting my body to the place where Ill be able to run 100 miles in 8 months.