On Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at 10:14:59 AM UTC-8, John Cochrane wrote:
The 2000' AGL finish at Truckee amounts to a very good incentive for final glides over lake Tahoe -- and is intended that way. If you don't have 2000' extra in the bank, there is just no point to starting the journey. I think Sergio had this specifically in mind.

John Cochrane

At Truckee, the problem with the 8000 msl finish line is that at that time of day you are nearly guaranteed of being able to climb up to the finish, if you make it into the Martis valley out of Lake Tahoe. This has been done a number of times in contests, proving that the finish line height alone is not a deterrent. My preference would be a steering turn at Marlette lake with a bottom of 10,200', which amounts to a 40:1 to the 8000' finish, and would keep most everyone from the temptation to try the water temperature in Lake Tahoe in pursuit of a win. I'm not adverse to anyone testing the water there, but would prefer not compete with those willing to give it a go. There is never lift over the lake, so the only skill being tested is the ability to ridge soar on an irregular ridge in weak lift, bound by rocks, with no option except a water landing. That is a risk that some may want to manage, but most don't.