I mean we've got someone complaining on the Oceanside thread about mid-pack pros & races like this one (races set up for mid pack pros) seem to be disappearing from the calendar. Now we've got people over here asking if worlds slots should be given out to women at this race. I'm saying the strength of the women's field here was fine & that they deserve their slots. I think the men's winner was a bit of an anomaly at a race like this. I have no issue at all with the women's race. Maybe 1st did race to win &, if so, then what does a time gap matter. Pro racing doesn't have to just be one big time trial for every athlete. Long course racing can be a lot of fun when people are still racing close to the finish line. Races like this are huge for athletes to pick up prize money, experience, and world championship slots.