You could do everything Chris Lilly did but smoke it if you want. I haven't tried smoking a turkey but have heard that smoking at 300+ is the best way to do it. And I would definitely cut it down like he did there. Actually, I might just try it but my smoker doesn't really like to get that...
I think it's been an interesting series of videos by Yeager. He mentions that he thinks his max weight should be about 20lbs. That's surprising for someone that appears to be in pretty good shape. His mindset is also to be moving as fast as possible for as long as possible. Maybe I missed it...
I just noticed on Groupon that they have some cheap backpacks on there. They're most camo which I know gets people all worked up about being noticed but not bad if you're on a budget.
Did you get to hear any of the discussion of the rule change? Was the last point put in for the reason you suggested? I don't use a shoulder harness or purse so I'm just curious about it. Theoretically, someone could just get on their knees with a shoulder harness or purse and do it that way.
When you start a thread, you need to hang around for an hour to answer some of the important questions that are going to be asked. It's that or post the approximate time you're going check back in with your thread.
South Side Indy? Bradis sells it and they have decent selection in colors. Otherwise, tons of places online for it along with all the buckles and other accessories for them.