Tony Raven said:I wouldn't try to argue the merits of the case, just say that you do not
own and do not wear a helmet for personal reasons, that they are not a
legal requirement and that you would like to participate in the
competition without being discriminated against for your own personal
decisions. Any more and you will probably be dismissed as a crank for
challenging their dearly held views which will not get the outcome you
seek. Just my $0.02
I'd back this view, and add a caveat to the "see you as a crank" angle.
While Im pro choice Ive also been responsible for safety in a SCUBA
club, and you wouldnt believe the amount of cr*p people will put you
through so they can have everything their way without compromise. It
takes a lot of time & effort to lay on entertainment for others, & when
they want you to spend hours reading up on a whole subject area for
their convience at your risk, its a lot easier to just cancel everything
& invite them to shoulder the organising & responsibility.
In short bend a bit for folk whove put themselves out for your
enjoyment. Ask, but dont push.