I must admit that I'm a fan of more shorter races for the following reasons. Longer races (50mins +)do ultimately become precessions and towards the end of these races I personally give up attacking and start defending. During longer races the fleet can get pretty drawn out which isn't advantageous for anybody, the closer the competition is the more you learn. Being a tail end Charlie is no fun in long races not only is there a humilating chance of being lapped, but a feeling of guilt of holding up the preceedings as you are trying to get over the finish line, whilst the majority of the competitors are itching to be racing again. Shorter races should lead to more races which I beleive leads to more accurate results (don't forget that I don't beleive in discards but thats another issue). Shorter races keeps all the competitors much closer together which is better for the individuals and Class. I also find doing more races more rewarding. Shorter races on a shorter course is a true test of boat handling and strategies (less room for errors). I'm not aware of competitors pushing the line more or for that matter hanging back from the line depending on the duration of the race but thats only me. More races at present equals more discards!!! I also like to feel that I'm getting value for money, at this years Nations Cup the entry fee was £35.00 for twelve races other events I've been to were £25.00 for six. As competitors travelling to these events I think you do get more overall value if the races are kept short and sweet with plenty of them.