2009 Proposed US Contest Rules Changes

I'm confused about the "bouncing start gaggles" issue? If I start out
the top (at the back, for sake of argument), and stay above the MSH,
I'm on course. If I see a gaggle above MSH in front, I would be
stupid not to take advantage of their thermal - but unlikely to be
high enough to aggressively "bounce" it. If I drive down into a start
gaggle and drop back below MSH, then I should be penalized if I don't
hang around for 2 minutes - which would pretty much waste the
advantage of starting out the top earlier.

So, take away the option of the earlier start if you subsequently clip
the edge of the start cylinder - It would force you to either fly
conservatively enough to be sure not to drop back below MSH, or make
you hang around for 2 more minutes if you misjudge your out-the-top
start.

I don't like the proposal as stated - the start area should not be
variable, in any way - that's poor rule making, IMHO. I would prefer
to use the 2008 start anywhere rule as is, and see if gaggles get
bounced.

Out west, of course. Not likely where I'm racing these days!

Kirk
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