Originally Posted by
whele
Yes sorry, you are quite right, I didn't make myself clear. I made the assumption that at some point during its evolution process it would need to move from "picking their own course" to a fully designated route.
For what it's worth, free route is a totally valid concept in the context of randonneuring*. For grand fondos, sportives, etc. - not so much.
(I realize you aren't really talking about randonneuring, though. Just thought I'd throw this out there.)
(* talking about the USA. I am not sure if rando organizations in other countries have free route randonnees.)