The big picture is that the selection process is much much better then the US only Olympic trials used in the past. The trials were nothing but trouble in an era of just a couple of international competitors and a small rump US fleet (see wind surf fiasco which led to new US law and the catamaran team racing protests). The principle behind a single selection event was that a sailor would be peaking shortly before the Olympics and carry that edge to a medal in the games. The idea was that the pressure from and all or nothing event was essential in testing the sailors psychological make up and ultimately in actually winning a medal.

The reality is that world competition has raised the bar in all classes to such a degree that "peaking" can't get you a medal. Sailors like Ben Ainslee demonstrate that sheer brilliance carries the day and that "peaking" is less critical then just being the best!

In practical terms, one qualifying slot will be awarded at the 2016 OCRs... having each nation with just three boats entered AND the need to be your nations top sailor because its a countries selection event will minimize any team race bulls...t Of course, a scumbag could have their training partner/buddy from a country with nothing at stake "help" your standing... but with 40 boats on the line... it will be tougher.