Mark,

You must be kidding... I feel that skippers meetings are important. First, it is a social issue, everybody can meet formally with the other racers and get an idea with what kind of PRO they are dealing.
Then, it is very common that people need to be reminded of procedures (flags etc...) even if they are stated in the instructions. You must know also that often (allways) racers have questions and it is nice (I would say basic) to provide them answers.A good way to avoid confusion on the water when it is too late to communicate.
Also, every sailing place has its specificities, it is good to remind sailors about obstacles, problems related to the place and course.

These are the first reasons which come to my mind.

Jacques
SHBCC Race.org