If this is the Hathersage organiser, then I find the OP's ranty rant somewhat hard to believe. This organiser's routesheets are so good, and so clear, I've used them as the template for my own routesheets since I started organising.
In my experience, one's GPS or odometer always ends up out of synch with a routesheet, but I've found two ways to solve this, for Peak District hilly 100s, I favour the Don Black/Sheila Simpson distance-free routesheet. Bliss.
For any other event, I've simply stopped using any sort of odometer or GPS. I keep my Garmin in my bag, just in case I get lost and need a map, but it no longer sits on my handlebars. Also, bliss! I know what 1/2/5/10km rides like, and so should you, Mr ranty OP.