This is the proposed start for the Weymouth to Lulworth Surfski Race on the weekend. It is subject to change, but either way the concept is along these lines. 

So start thinking of how you will tackle it.

Rules :

Any paddler can go for any of the hot spots, the more money is allocated to the Hotspots that provides perceived  disadvantage.  

The Paddler who breaks the line between the buoys is the Hot spot winner. If there is a dispute, the paddler closest to the buoy is deemed the winner. i.e. if you change you mind half way, to buoy 3 you are at a disadvantage. Hot spot will be videoed. 

The idea was born out of providing some variation and tactical decision making at the start of the race. Also to allow other competitors other than the top paddlers to get the hot spots.  The hot spots usually end up going to one of the top paddlers. This may change the race from the beginning. This throws some judgement on whether you think it's worth loosing 300m, or getting 300m jump on your fellow competitors.

As the race is over 15Km, these deviations may not add up to much, but those at the pointy end will know the advantage of loosing a slip or disadvantage of trying to make up some ground and not concentrating on the runs. 

This is experimental and will be further covered at the briefing - I'll take your feedback on the day, in case there are any grave concerns.