I think a 15 to 30 second script, delivered by a professional announcer, would do the trick. Consumate, thoughtful pros like Don Ryder, Alan Reeves (IMNZ) or The Guy at Ironman Austria (who gets extra points for flawlessly alternating between English and German) could do a better job than any head ref. Speaking as a broadcaster of 30 years standing, announcing should be left to the pros when possible.
We just have to convince RDs that it’s a Good Thing to Do.
As for bar-end plugs at the Wildflower long course: we didn’t DQ anyone. We spent a lot of time in the transition area checking bar ends before the race, and advising people to fix any problems. Part of our procedure is to also inform race management of bar ends that need replacing, so they can follow up. But I agree 100% – it shouldn’t be a problem in the first place.