... we need to forget everything we know about how sailboat races are "typically" run.
...
The races MUST be short. The courses MUST be simple.
...
Oh, did I mention, Team Racing already meets these criteria...
Races are about getting to the finish line faster.
Slowing down the other boat, forcing it into a mistake or penalty is part of it, but this is "negative" sailing, not really fun. Unfortunately, this is the main focus of match racing.
Many people consider "negative" sailing even more important than sailing fast. I agree that it plays a role in sailing, but in my opinion this should not be the main focus of sailing races.
Regards,
